Carlisle is undergoing a major transformation. Cumberland Council is leading a series of regeneration projects that will revitalise the city centre and create a vibrant, modern environment for all.
Works are either nearing completion or about to begin, with improvements planned for key gateways, public spaces and transport hubs. 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.
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.
Market Square and Greenmarket
The regeneration of Market Square and Greenmarket is complete, thanks to central government funding aimed at transforming high streets and city centres.
The new-look space will be unveiled at a grand opening on Saturday 18 October, running from 10am to 4pm. The day will feature live entertainment, local traders, and a celebratory atmosphere. More details will follow shortly, but please save the date for this special celebration.
Carlisle Southern Gateway
The Carlisle Town Deal continues to bring investment into the city, supporting regeneration, business growth, and improved connectivity. Works are progressing in phases:
- Continuing in October: Phase 4b at Bar Solo and the remaining Botchergate junctions and footways, including new paving, kerbline and crossing points.
- Mid-October: From Monday 13 October for five nights (8pm–6am), Botchergate Junction will be closed (including The Crescent, English Street & Court Brow) for resurfacing, cycle lane installation, new road markings and signal upgrades. These are night-time closures only and will improve daytime traffic flow once complete.
- Late October 2025 to early 2026: Improvement works will take place on English Street. This includes safety improvements and works to ‘The Well’. Night closures will be required, with updates provided closer to the time.
- January to April 2026: Footway reconstruction and new street furniture on The Crescent.
Carlisle Station Gateway
The £27 million Carlisle Station Gateway Project, part of the Borderlands Inclusive Growth Deal, will transform Carlisle Station and its surroundings, improving accessibility and creating a modern gateway to the city and wider region.
Key milestones include:
- October 2025: Network Rail is set to begin enabling works, including demolition of a sandstone wall and outbuildings in preparation for the new southern entrance.
- Winter 2025: Public realm works to begin outside The Griffin and Costa in Court Square North, including the planned relocation of the historic Lawson Fountain.
Cllr Mark Fryer, Leader of Cumberland Council, said:
“These projects represent a once-in-a-generation opportunity to transform Carlisle for the future. In August 2024, we completed the vibrant new Devonshire Street. This year, Market Square and Greenmarket have been finalised, adding another key destination to the city centre.
“Looking ahead, the modernised Southern Gateway and improved station facilities will continue this transformation, creating spaces that are more attractive, accessible and welcoming.
“Together, they will not only boost our local economy but also make Carlisle a city we can all be proud of. 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”
For more information on the projects, visit: Cumberland Council – Carlisle City Centre Projects