Cumberland Council Celebrates Major Milestone in Hammond’s Pond Regeneration
Cumberland Council is pleased to announce the successful official opening of the new Multi-Use Games Area (MUGA) and Play Park at Hammond’s Pond, Carlisle.
On Friday 8 August, the newly refurbished areas of the park were officially opened and celebrated by representatives from Cumberland Council and the Town Deal Board; Friends of Hammond’s Pond; and local community groups during a special community event.
These improvements were funded through the Carlisle Town Deal and form part of the Start with the Park, an initiative focused on enhancing the quality, safety, and accessibility of active travel routes and green spaces connecting St Cuthberts Garden Village with Carlisle City Centre, providing high-quality leisure and recreational facilities.. The programme is a key element of Cumberland Council’s £100 million regeneration plan for the city, supported by UK Government investment via the Future High Streets Fund, Town Deal, and Borderlands Inclusive Growth Deal.
Improvements included new fencing for improved safety, enhanced ball rebound, and reduced noise, along with a high-grip surface to minimise slips and a new cricket wicket. The children’s play park has been fully resurfaced with durable, wheelchair-accessible rubber wet-pour material, replacing the former bark surface for greater safety, easier maintenance, and a seamless connection with surrounding paths and green space—creating a safer, more inclusive environment for all.
To mark the occasion, Cumberland Council hosted an official opening event on Friday 8 August at the MUGA. Attendees included Cllr Andy Semple, Cllr Chris Wills, the chair of the Town Deal Board David Wright, MP Julie Minns, local young footballers from AFC Carlisle and others.
Cumberland Councillor Anne Quilter, Executive Member for Vibrant and Healthy Places, said
“A huge thank you to everyone who came to the opening event, especially our fantastic staff who made this first milestone so interactive and welcoming. But most of all, thanks to the parents and children who helped us proudly show off the new facilities, your energy and enthusiasm truly brought the space to life!”
This is just the beginning, as developments are continuing to happen with the Start with the Park project. Contracts have just been signed for the construction of the new skatepark and the design of a combined changing room and store. Plans for a new cycle store and repair point are progressing, with designs still underway. A strategy for new tree planting to enhance green spaces is being developed, while drainage improvement works continue across the park to keep facilities in top condition year-round.
Watch the opening video here: Start with the Park - Hammond's Pond MUGA and Play Park refurbishment - YouTube