Cumberland Council has launched a £2.17 million land remediation project at the Caldew Riverside site, paving the way for new homes and economic growth in Carlisle city centre.
The 2.2-hectare brownfield site, nestled between the River Caldew and the West Coast Main Line, is owned by the council and identified in the Carlisle Local Plan as a prime regeneration opportunity. Currently made up of scrubland, hardstanding, and trees, the site also includes the Caldew Riverside car park, and the site has long held untapped potential.
This project will make the land safe and ready for future development, creating opportunities for the community while protecting the local environment. Work will include removing harmful substances and safeguarding water sources, ensuring the site is clean and prepared for the next chapter.
The enabling works began in mid-October 2025 and are expected to be completed by mid-2026. During this time, the Caldew Riverside car park will remain open. Alternative parking is available nearby at West Walls and Viaduct car parks.
Over £100 million is being invested in high-quality schemes 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.
Funding for the project was secured from the Carlisle Town Deal, the Brownfield Land Release Fund and Homes England. Following a competitive tendering process concluded in March 2025, Story Contracting Ltd was appointed to deliver the works.
A condition of the Brownfield Land Release Fund grant is to bring the site forward for residential housing by 31 March 2028, and the next stage for the council will be to identify an appropriate development route for the site.
Cllr Mark Fryer, Leader of Cumberland Council, said:
“This is a vital investment in Carlisle’s future. Remediating this site paves the way for meaningful development, and this investment will unlock new housing opportunities.
“This is another successful funding win by the teams at Cumberland Council, demonstrating our commitment to making Carlisle and the wider Cumberland area the place to be.
“Once remediated, the Caldew Riverside site could become home to a new housing development, boosting footfall, supporting local trade, and adding vibrancy to the heart of the city.”
The total project budget of £2.17m comprises £850,000 from the Town Deal Capital Accelerated Funding (secured in 2021), £22,000 from Homes England, and £1,300,000 from the Brownfield Land Release Fund (secured in March 2025).
Backed by national funding including the UK Government’s Towns Fund, Future High Streets Fund, UK Shared Prosperity Fund and the Borderlands Inclusive Growth Deal, this coordinated regeneration programme supports long-term growth, sustainability, and high street renewal.