Cumberland Council is delighted to announce a series of exciting developments at Hammond’s Pond, these improvements aim to promote health, inclusivity, and active lifestyles by enhancing the space for families, children, and young people across Carlisle.
This transformative project is part of the Start with the Park initiative, which forms part of a £2.6 million investment to create and improve green spaces between St Cuthbert’s Garden Village and Carlisle city centre. The project is funded by Carlisle Town Deal.
Earlier this year, Cumberland Council held a public consultation to hear what local residents wanted from their park, and the council listened. Following feedback from a local parent about accessibility, the council has installed a brand-new inclusive swing, making the play area more welcoming for children and adults with disabilities.
One local parent shared:
“I’m so happy to see that an upright seat has gone in! Hopefully many disabled children and adults will love having the seat and the opportunity to swing. Thank you to all involved for actually taking the time to ask the public what we wanted and to implement the changes you could.”
This is just one step in Cumberland Council’s commitment to making parks inclusive and enjoyable for all.
In addition, improvement works to the infant play area have now been completed, and the space was fully reopened earlier last week. With an investment of approximately £32,000, the old seesaw has been replaced with a vibrant mix of new equipment, including:
- A multi-play unit with a slide
- A new seesaw
- Spinner bowl
- Play panels
- New inclusive sensory equipment
All set within safe, rubber wet pour surfacing, the upgrades have significantly improved accessibility and inclusivity, offering a more engaging and fun experience for younger children.
Looking ahead, Cumberland Council is thrilled to announce that a brand-new skatepark is coming to Hammond’s Pond! Designed by Canvas, this dynamic new space will cater to skaters, BMX riders, and scooter enthusiasts of all ages. The skatepark will be located just behind the old aviary site, with construction scheduled to begin soon. Updates will be shared vis the council’s social media channels.. Visitors are encouraged to enjoy Hammond’s Pond and experience the enhanced facilities.
Important Notice: To allow resurfacing works to progress safely, there will be no vehicle access to either car park on Tuesday 25 November. Limited pedestrian access will remain available along the Buchanan Road car park entrance drive. The council’s contractors expect the works to be completed in one day (weather permitting), and both car parks should return to normal use from Wednesday 26 November.
Cumberland Councillor Anne Quilter, Executive Member for Vibrant and Healthy Places said:
“Green spaces like Hammond’s Pond are at the heart of our communities. These improvements reflect our commitment to creating safe, inclusive, and vibrant places where people of all ages and abilities can come together, play, and enjoy the outdoors. We’re proud to be investing in a space that will benefit generations to come.”
Together, these improvements reflect Cumberland Council’s ongoing commitment to creating vibrant, inclusive, and accessible public spaces for everyone in our community.
Stay updated with the progress of Start with The Park by visiting the Cumberland Council website