Cumberland Council is urging drivers, businesses and residents to plan their journeys in advance as a series of essential roadworks and utility works take place in the south of Carlisle over the coming weeks.
The works include ongoing planned structural repairs on the Eastern Way bridge, alongside gas mains replacement works by Northern Gas Networks on Warwick Road. Both schemes will be delivered using a multi‑way traffic signals.
Together, the works mean that traffic lights will be in operation on key routes into and out of the city, and drivers are advised to allow extra time for journeys where possible.
Eastern Way structural repairs ongoing until 26 June
On Eastern Way, the council will be continuing planned works to repair the bridge deck joints following detailed specialist inspections.
A range of solutions were carefully explored, and after taking professional engineering advice the council has confirmed that completing the permanent repairs this year is the most appropriate and responsible option. The works will include targeted hydro demolition and reconstruction where required, ensuring the bridge continues to operate safely and reliably for years to come.
The intention had been to complete the Eastern Way works ahead of the start of works on Warwick Road. However, during construction, unforeseen conditions were identified, including sections of concrete in poorer condition than expected. Addressing this safely has required additional work, including the installation of reinforcement, concrete pours and curing time. As a result, the programme has been extended until Friday 26 June.
The council recognises the additional inconvenience this may cause and appreciates the patience of road users while these essential improvements are carried out.
It is worth noting that Phase 2 of the works at Durranhill is planned from late September to early December. This phase will complete bridge joint replacements on the top side of the structure. More information will be shared nearer the time.
Utility works on Warwick Road from Monday 11 May until Monday 24 June.
During this period, Northern Gas Networks will be carrying out essential gas mains replacement works on Warwick Road, using a multi‑way traffic signal system. These works were originally planned for last year but were intentionally postponed avoiding traffic disruption during other major schemes.
Northern Gas Networks has coordinated the timing of its works to take place outside of the football season and has worked closely with Brunton Park to minimise disruption.
While coordination has taken place to reduce the overall impact, the overlap of works means drivers should expect delays, particularly at peak times.
The council has highlighted that 2026 is a particularly busy year for road and utility works across Carlisle. Many schemes were delayed during the Covid‑19 pandemic and are now being delivered alongside major infrastructure projects following the completion of the Carlisle Southern Link Road, which will open for public use on the afternoon of 12 June.
Utility companies work to national regulatory timescales and have statutory rights to access the highway, which limits how much their programmes can be moved. The council continues to work closely with utility providers to coordinate works wherever possible and minimise disruption.
For more information about the gas works please visit Northern Gas Networks website.
The council is encouraging drivers to:
- Allow extra time for journeys
- Consider travelling outside peak times where possible
- Follow signed diversions and temporary traffic management
- Check the council’s website and social media channels for updates
- Consider using one of the new enhanced bus routes as an alternative to driving: www.cumberland.gov.uk/bus-timetables
Cumberland Council thanks residents and businesses for their patience while these essential works are carried out to keep the city’s roads safe and reliable for the long term.