Plans for a major new University of Cumbria campus in Carlisle city centre have taken another step forward following a decision by Cumberland Council's Executive today (Monday 28 September).
Members agreed to recommend the transfer of council-owned land at English Street to the University of Cumbria and approved arrangements for £5.215 million of Town Deal funding to support the delivery of a new Business Exchange Centre as part of the wider development.
Work continues on the proposals, which form part of the wider Citadels redevelopment project - one of the largest regeneration schemes in the Borderlands region. Work on the project is ongoing. The delivery could see the creation of a flagship university campus, creating new teaching facilities, business innovation space and opportunities for local people and businesses
The project aims to increase access to higher education, support economic growth, attract investment and bring new life to a prominent gateway site in Carlisle city centre. The development is also expected to increase footfall, support local businesses and strengthen the city's role as a centre for skills, innovation and culture.
Leader of Cumberland Council, Cllr Mark Fryer, said:
"This is an important project for Carlisle and one that has the potential to deliver significant change to the city. Bringing a modern university campus into the heart of the city will create new opportunities for learning, innovation and business growth while helping to breathe new life into one of Carlisle's key sites.
"The Citadels development will strengthen Carlisle's position as a regional centre for education and investment, creating benefits that will be felt across Cumberland and the wider Borderlands region."
The project includes a new Business Exchange Centre that will provide flexible workspace, support start-ups and growing businesses, and encourage collaboration between industry and academia.
The recommendations will now be considered by Full Council on Wednesday 30 September.