Cumberland Council is pleased to announce that Network Rail has secured £13.504 million from the Department for Transport to support delivery of the Carlisle Station Gateway Project.
This significant investment recognises the economic growth potential of the Carlisle Station Gateway Project and the role that additional funding can play in unlocking further development opportunities for the city and wider region.
The Carlisle Station Gateway Project has already benefitted from investment through the Borderlands Inclusive Growth Deal with a £27 million first phase of development, which will transform Carlisle Station and its surroundings, improve accessibility and create a modern gateway to the city and beyond.
The new £13.504 million will form a capped contribution to the existing partnership project between Cumberland Council and Network Rail, adding to the overall funding envelope already in place. It will be made available to Network Rail to progress key elements of the scheme.
Within this financial year, the funding is expected to support:
- Design and construction work at George Square
- Design and construction work at Court Square
- Land development to the south of the station and enabling works
- Station change activities
- Business case development
- Operational costs, including staff and signage
The full scope of the Carlisle Station Gateway Project will also include essential station accessibility improvements and interior works to meet forecast demand and support the remodelled city centre.
Over £100 million is being invested in high-quality schemes in the Carlisle area that will help reshape the heart of the city into a greener, more dynamic place. These projects will enhance accessibility, support local growth, and help build a city centre that’s fit for the future.
Cllr Mark Fryer, Leader of Cumberland Council and Borderlands Partnership Board member, said:
"This investment is a major step forward for Carlisle’s regeneration. The Carlisle Station Gateway Project will not only transform the station environment but also create opportunities for economic growth and improved connectivity for residents and visitors alike. It is positive to see further investment on the back of the initial Borderlands Deal funding.
“These enhanced facilities will continue the station’s transformation, creating spaces that are more attractive, accessible, and welcoming, ensuring that when people arrive in Carlisle, they are greeted by a station that reflects the city’s vibrancy and ambition, and sets the tone for exploring everything our area has to offer.”
Julie Minns, MP Carlisle, added:
''This additional £13.5 million is a further sign of the confidence this Government has in Carlisle’s future. Across the city we are seeing significant levels of public investment, from the Citadel campus and neighbourhood renewal schemes to improvements in our high streets and public spaces. The Station Gateway Project adds to this progress and will help deliver a modern, accessible and welcoming entrance to the city that reflects the pride we all share in Carlisle.
“This funding will deliver practical improvements that people will feel in their everyday lives. Better connectivity, safer and more attractive public spaces and improved access to rail services will support local businesses, encourage more people into the city centre and strengthen Carlisle’s position as a place where people want to live, study, visit, and invest.''
Hannah Clarke, Network Rail’s project sponsor, agreed and said:
“Carlisle station is a beautiful piece of railway heritage and an important gateway to the city. This investment will transform the experience for the thousands of passengers who use the station every day, making it easier to navigate, more accessible, and better connected to the city centre. We're working closely with Cumberland Council and Avanti West Coast to deliver improvements that passengers will see and feel from spring 2026."
