Cumberland Council is providing an update on the Carlisle Southern Link Road (CSLR) project as the scheme moves into its final stages.
Significant progress has been made across the site in recent months, with many of the most visible elements of the new road now in place. Permanent surfacing has been completed along the route, and white lining is now being applied. Final road signs are also being installed.
Landscaping works are well underway, with many trees already planted and final grass seeding taking place. People travelling near the route may notice the hydroseeding process being carried out, helping to establish grass on verges and embankments across the scheme.
The two sculptures at the Mare and Foal roundabout at Durdar and the Limousin Bull at Brisco roundabout have now been successfully installed. Cumberland Council is delighted to have supported local artist Ellie Barden of Grace Forge on these striking designs, which celebrate the area’s rural heritage.
To date, more than one million cubic metres of material has been moved as part of the construction of the Carlisle Southern Link Road. While the majority of earthworks are complete, there is still some material being moved around the site into its final location. For safety reasons, while this activity continues, the route cannot yet be opened to the public.
The project has now entered the snagging phase, a vital stage of the works which allows the project team to carry out detailed inspections and address any final issues. This ensures the road is safe and fully ready before it opens to traffic.
A full Road Safety Audit is ongoing, which is a major milestone in the project, and indicates that the main contractor, Galliford Try Infrastructure, is preparing the route for public use ahead of the planned opening on Friday 12 June.
The road opening ceremony will take place from approximately 10.00am on Friday 12 June, with the road opening for public use after this event during the afternoon.
Cumberland Council is aware that residents and businesses have raised questions about traffic cones remaining in place in various locations. Although public traffic is currently using parts of the new road, the site is still under the control of the contractor and is therefore still classed as a construction site. This is why the traffic cones and speed limit restrictions remain in place.
Leader of Cumberland Council, Cllr Mark Fryer, said:
“The Carlisle Southern Link Road is one of the biggest infrastructure investments we have seen in the area for many years, and it is fantastic to see the project entering its final stages.
“This vital scheme, funded through Homes England, will bring long‑term benefits for residents, businesses and the local economy by improving connectivity and easing congestion.
“I would like to thank everyone involved in delivering this complex project, and in particular the local community for their patience and understanding while the works have been carried out. We are now very close to seeing this important new route open for public use.”
Further updates will be shared as the project reaches its final stages and preparations are made for the road to fully open.