Cumberland Council’s ambitious £440 million regeneration programme continues with significant milestones secured for its Carlisle projects.
Improvement works to Carlisle Southern Gateway, the Greenmarket, Market Square and Carlisle Station Gateway are all underway - resulting in more than £100 million invested in high quality projects that mark a significant step forward in transforming the heart of the city into a greener and more vibrant place.
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, the coordinated regeneration programme supports long-term growth, sustainability, and high street renewal, while shaping a Carlisle city centre fit for the future.
Leader of Cumberland Council, Councillor Mark Fryer, said:
“Our regeneration programme is the largest ever investment seen in our area and one we are never likely to experience again.
“It is unprecedent and is resulting in transformational projects that will provide lasting benefits for generations to come.
“We are reimagining Cumberland’s future by investing in our towns and city. It will be a legacy to be proud of.
“Completed projects in Maryport, Whitehaven and in Carlisle are helping businesses thrive as well as making our area more welcoming for residents and visitors.
“Work is well underway in projects in Millom, Cleator Moor and Workington, providing investment throughout our Cumberland footprint.
“In Carlisle alone, more than £100 million is being invested and we are continuing to transform the city centre into a vibrant place where people want to live, work, learn, and spend time.”
Key progress in Carlisle this summer includes:
Carlisle Southern Gateway:
Improvement works on English Street are almost complete. The road is fully open to vehicles, pedestrians and cyclists; however, some minor works are continuing on some footways and bus stops.
The bus stop on Victoria Viaduct will be open and some bus services will use routes via English Street, Victoria Viaduct and Devonshire Street. More details can be found at: https://www.stagecoachbus.com
The project now continues on the Citadel corner with works progressing onto Botchergate junction. The junction improvements will include the continuation of the new bi-directional cycle lane and upgraded traffic signals. Updates will continue to be provided.
Enhancements to The Crescent, are programmed to start in January 2026.
Greenmarket and Market Square:
The Cathedral entrance on Castle Street reopened on Friday; however, the section from the junction up towards the Greenmarket remains closed while construction is ongoing.
The final excavations have now been completed, and tree pits have been installed outside Bordo Lounge, Wilkinson Cameras, and Tesco.
Walkways will be adjusted to ensure public safety as work progresses
A new walkway is now open between Caffè Nero and White Stuff, improving pedestrian access through the area.
Paving works will continue in Market Square, including the installation of engraved wording to mark the end of the Cumbria Way. This will be laid around the Market Cross.
The International Market returns over the August Bank Holiday weekend
Four new trees will be planted during the next planting season to enhance the space further.
Full completion of the area is expected by September.
Carlisle Station Gateway:
This project will progress in autumn, with initial works planned on Court Square, outside Costa and The Griffin. Further updates will follow.
