Cumberland Council is building on the success of recent regeneration projects in Devonshire Street, Greenmarket, and Market Square by starting the next phase of improvements in Carlisle city centre.
These works are part of the Carlisle Station Gateway Project and Carlisle Southern Gateway, continuing the council’s commitment to creating a greener, more accessible, and vibrant city centre for residents, businesses, and visitors.
In January, work on the Carlisle Southern Gateway (English Street) began with the careful removal of existing planting and soil, this will be reused in other council-owned green spaces across the city.
From 12 January, for four weeks, kerb lines will be replaced and paving installed between the kerb line and cycleway. Road resurfacing will take place, from 9 February for one week between 7pm until 6am, with evening road closures in place. Full details are available here: https://one.network/?GB147235854.
The Carlisle Station Gateway Project will continue with the installation of new drainage systems in front of the station, followed by the creation of rain gardens to manage surface water and enhance biodiversity. Foundations will be laid for Lawson’s Monument, which will be relocated to Court Square outside Carlisle Station, before final paving works are carried out. This phase is expected to take around four months. Preparatory works already completed include the infill of the former public toilets, diversion of the water main, and provision of temporary road access.
Please note that the small car park in front of the train station will be closed during the works. Visitors are advised to use the car park to the left of the station, which offers a 20-minute free parking for drop offs. Pedestrians should follow the signed routes for their safety. Ensuring public safety remains the council’s top priority.
Improvements have also started at The Crescent (as part of the Carlisle Southern Gateway), including new kerbs, paving, and modern street furniture. Work is scheduled to be complete in spring 2026. Bus stops on The Crescent are temporarily out of use during this period, with services stopping on Lowther Street, Botchergate and Warwick Road instead.
Cumberland Council continues to work closely with local businesses to minimise disruption. The council reassure everyone that businesses will remain open as usual throughout the works.
Cllr Mark Fryer, Leader of Cumberland Council, said:
“This is brilliant news; it is like the final piece of the jigsaw in making Carlisle a better place for the future. We are very proud of Carlisle and all of Cumberland’s communities. These improvements will make it easier for people to access the city, enjoy the fantastic facilities on offer, and attract visitors, which will boost our economy. It is all about creating better connectivity for residents and visitors alike.
“I would like to stress that during these works businesses are very much open and rely on your support throughout the year – so please support them as much as you can.”
These works are part of a wider regeneration programme, with over £100 million invested in Carlisle to reshape the heart of the city into a greener, more dynamic place. The improvements will enhance accessibility, support local growth, and create a city centre that’s fit for the future.
Further updates will be shared as works progress. Cumberland Council thanks residents and businesses for their patience and cooperation during these improvements.
