Cumberland Council is thanking local residents, businesses and community representatives who shared their views on potential Active Travel improvements in Carlisle, as the county prepares to play its part in major national and international cycling events.
In mid‑April (16 April), council officers hosted an engagement afternoon at The Halston, giving people the opportunity to talk about early, exploratory ideas for The Crescent and Warwick Road. The session was designed to start a conversation, understand local views and help shape future proposals before any detailed design work progresses.
During the event, officers shared a range of early discussion diagrams, which are not fixed plans but starting points to encourage conversation and gather feedback. This work forms part of the council’s wider ambition to explore where future Active Travel schemes could support people who live, work and travel into Carlisle city centre.
The Crescent and Warwick Road corridor is a key route, and the council is keen to understand current challenges, how the area is used day to day, and what could help make walking, wheeling, cycling and getting around the city easier and safer. Engagement with businesses has been a vital part of these conversations, helping the council better understand operational needs such as deliveries, customer access and day‑to‑day activity.
This work comes at an exciting time for Carlisle and the wider county, as Cumberland looks ahead to hosting some of the UK and world’s most celebrated cycling events, reinforcing the area’s strong connection to active travel and outdoor activity.
On Saturday 20 June 2026, Ride to the Sun will start from Bitts Park in Carlisle, with riders embarking on a 100‑mile overnight journey into Scotland to mark the summer solstice. The event showcases Cumberland’s strong cycling culture and commitment to sustainable travel. More information is available at:
https://www.ridetothesun.co.uk/
Looking further ahead, Cumberland is also proud to play a key role in the 2027 Tour de France, with a Stage One finish confirmed in Carlisle and a Stage Two start in Keswick. These milestones mark an exciting moment for the county as preparations continue for what is expected to be the largest free sporting spectacle in British history.
The men’s Tour de France will begin in Edinburgh on Friday 2 July 2027, with the opening stage finishing in Carlisle the same day. Stage two will then depart from Keswick on Saturday 3 July 2027, travelling through the Lake District and Lancashire before finishing in Liverpool.
Together, these events underline the importance of well‑connected, inclusive and accessible streets, helping more people feel confident walking, wheeling and cycling, not just for major events, but for everyday journeys too.
All feedback from the engagement session will be reviewed to help shape the next steps. Improvements of this kind can support healthier lifestyles, improve access to jobs, education, healthcare and cultural venues, and help strengthen the city centre by increasing footfall and supporting the local economy.
Cumberland Councillor Denise Rollo, Executive Member for Sustainable, Resilient and Connected Places, said:
“We were delighted to see so many people attend the Warwick Road drop-in session and share honest views. The conversations were positive and helpful, and it was great to hear directly from people who use these routes every day.
“With exciting events like Ride to the Sun and the Tour de France coming to Cumberland, it’s a great opportunity to think about how our streets work for local people every day, as well as for visitors.
“Exploring possible improvements on The Crescent and Warwick Road is about understanding what people need from their city centre. Nothing is scheduled for construction; this is simply the very first step.”
Cllr Rollo added:
“Active Travel isn’t just about cycle lanes or wheeling; it includes footpaths too and how comfortable and accessible they are for everyone. The Crescent is a good example, where footway improvements are progressing well and, weather permitting, we hope these will be completed by the end of May.”
The council’s online survey will remain open until midnight on Sunday 17 May, to allow people to share further feedback or ask questions:
https://consult.cumberland.gov.uk/warwick-road-carlisle
Alternatively, residents and businesses can contact the project team at:
[email protected]
