Cumberland Council continues the £2.17 million land remediation project at the Caldew Riverside site, marking a major step toward Carlisle’s city centre regeneration.
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.
The 2.2‑hectare brownfield site, located between the River Caldew and the West Coast Main Line, will be made safe and prepared for future development, unlocking opportunities for new housing and economic growth.
Works began in October 2025 and are expected to be completed by summer 2026. During this period, the Caldew Riverside car park remains open, with alternative parking available at West Walls and Viaduct car parks.
Story Contracting Ltd is delivering the remediation programme, funded through the Brownfield Land Release Fund, Carlisle Town Deal, and Homes England. Once complete, the site is expected to be brought forward for residential development by March 2028, supporting the creation of a greener, more vibrant city centre.
Project Update
Recent work on the site has included clearing debris and vegetation and disposing of all materials safely. The team has also been preparing the area for the installation of a permeable treatment barrier and interceptor trenches. This has involved carefully excavating the trenches in controlled layers, each around 300mm wide and 2–3 metres deep, so they can intercept the upper groundwater. In addition, earthwork stability measures have been put in place, with excavated materials handled safely and stored in separate stockpiles. These activities form a key part of the contamination‑removal strategy, helping to stabilise the ground and ensure the site is safe for future housing development.
Cllr Mark Fryer, Leader of Cumberland Council, said:
“Remediating the Caldew Riverside site is a significant milestone in our long‑term plans to revitalise Carlisle’s city centre. This phase of work is crucial in preparing the land for future development and ensuring the site can safely support new housing.
“This project represents a major investment in Carlisle’s growth, made possible through successful funding partnerships and the continued commitment of our teams. Once the remediation is complete, the site will be ready to move forward towards residential development, supporting economic activity, increasing footfall, and helping to create a more vibrant and sustainable city centre.”
David Wright, Chair of the Carlisle Town Deal Board, said:
“This is an exciting opportunity for Carlisle. The work at Caldew Riverside represents another significant step in unlocking long‑term investment for the city. By preparing this site for development, we’re creating the foundations for new homes, new jobs, and a more vibrant city centre. It’s a key part of our ambition to bring forward high‑quality regeneration that delivers real benefits for local people and supports Carlisle’s growth for generations to come.”
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.
