Cumberland Council has confirmed that the regeneration of Market Square and Greenmarket in Carlisle city centre is nearing completion, creating a more vibrant, welcoming, and flexible public space.
This marks a significant milestone in the project, with the majority of works successfully finalised. Cumberland Council is pleased with the progress made and appreciates the continued cooperation and patience shown throughout.
As part of the final stages, contractors Eric Wright Limited may return to address a small number of snagging items. This will ensure the completed works meet the highest standards and are delivered to the satisfaction of the council.
Funded through the central government’s Future High Streets Fund, this transformation covers over 5,000 square metres and is designed to support local businesses, encourage footfall, and enhance the city’s appeal throughout the day and into the evening.
The Market Square and Greenmarket regeneration project is designed to create an attractive, multifunctional space that creates a new focal point in the pedestrianised area, encourages activity that supports shops and businesses and creates a greener city centre.
Market Square with new paving and street furniture while enhancing Greenmarket and Castle Street. Unique natural stone features and greenery will transform Greenmarket into an inviting event space, adding charm to the city centre.
A standout feature of the project is the new lighting scheme, which brings warmth, character, and adaptability to the city centre. Functional lighting has been carefully planned to suit both everyday use and special events. This includes general lighting across the main marketplace, adjustable lighting at the front of the Old Town Hall to accommodate third-party projections, and a dedicated setup for the stage event area, which can be tailored for performances and gatherings.
In addition to functional lighting, feature lighting has been introduced to highlight key landmarks and add visual interest. The Market Cross and War Memorial will be illuminated with dedicated lighting, creating striking focal points. Projected lighting will also be used in the marketplace and stage event area, casting dynamic patterns that contribute to a distinctive and engaging evening atmosphere.
Adding a creative twist, artwork beneath the benches offers a lively and unexpected element that celebrates local heritage and adds depth to the public realm.
To support pedestrian safety and improve the flow of the space, bollards are being installed near the Crown and Mitre Hotel. These will operate on a timed schedule restricting vehicle access during key hours to create a safer and more welcoming environment. The bollards will be raised from 10.30am to 4.00pm daily, and overnight from 7.00pm to 7.00am daily. They will be lowered to allow vehicle access into the Greenmarket at the same times as those on Scotch Street.
As the city centre prepares to unveil its new look, a series of events are already taking shape:
- Weekly open-air market every Friday.
- Saturday 4 October: Farmers' Market in the Cathedral grounds, then every Saturday except January.
- Saturday 11 October: Carlisle Teenage Market returns to the city centre
- Saturday 18 October: Grand opening of Market Square and Greenmarket (full details to follow), including the Quirky Eclectica Market
- Saturday 1 and Sunday 2 November: Taste Carlisle food event in the Cathedral grounds (Saturday 1 November also hosts the Carlisle Fireshow at Bitts Park)
- Friday 7 November: Children’s Remembrance Service
- Sunday 9 November: Armistice Day and Remembrance Sunday
- Saturday 15 November: Quirky Eclectica Market (continuing on the third Saturday of each month)
- Sunday 16 November: Carlisle Christmas Lights Switch-On, outside the Old Town Hall
Councillor Mark Fryer, Leader of Cumberland Council, said:
“This is a fantastic moment for Carlisle. The new-look Market Square and Greenmarket will be a space for everyone, a place to meet, shop, relax, and enjoy events all year round. The lighting and artistic features bring a fresh energy to the heart of the city, and we are excited to see how people make it their own.
“I want to personally thank residents and businesses for their patience and support throughout the works. Their cooperation has been vital in helping to deliver this ambitious project, which marks a new chapter for Carlisle’s historic city centre, one that feels brighter, more inviting, and ready to welcome everyone.”