Cumberland Council is making further progress on the transformation of Carlisle Market Hall bus hub, helping to create a more attractive, accessible and welcoming gateway to the Market Hall and city centre.
This week, the project team has been cutting in the new sandstone paving around the Market Hall and has completed the installation of resin around the tree pit. Work next week will focus on further cutting in and grouting of the paving joints.
Phase 1 of the project remains on track for completion by the end of November 2026. Once Phase 1 is complete, the area is expected to fully reopen to buses and pedestrians ahead of the Christmas period.
Cllr Denise Rollo, Executive Member for Sustainable, Resilient and Connected Places at Cumberland Council, said:
“We’re pleased with the progress being made on the Carlisle Market Hall Bus Hub Project, and people can now start to see the new surrounding area to the Market Hall taking shape.
“We recognise that construction activity can cause disruption while improvements are being delivered, and we would like to thank residents, businesses and visitors for their continued patience and understanding.
“The Market Hall remains open throughout the works, and we would encourage people to continue supporting its independent traders.
“These improvements will ultimately create a more attractive, accessible and welcoming environment around the Market Hall for residents, visitors and public transport users.”
Access during Carlisle Fire Show:
For the upcoming Fire Show event, heras fencing around the works will be moved back and a temporary pedestrian walkway will be installed through the bus lane to provide safe access for people attending the event.
Market Hall bus hub improvements - your questions answered:
Will the Market Hall remain open?
Yes. The Market Hall, its businesses and traders remain open throughout the works, with access available via Scotch Street and Fisher Street.
Why aren’t the shelters just being replaced?
The project is refurbishing and improving the existing shelters, helping to maintain their relationship with the Market Hall building while delivering best value for public funds and complementing the surrounding area.
Are you building a new bus station?
No. Carlisle’s main bus station remains on Lonsdale Street. These works are improving the existing city centre bus hub, making it more welcoming, accessible and attractive for passengers.
How is the project funded?
The scheme is funded through the Government’s Bus Services Improvement Programme (BSIP) and is not being funded from Cumberland Council’s core budget.
How can pedestrians cross safely while work is taking place?
Pedestrian access has been maintained throughout the project. Anyone walking from Peter Street Car Park into the city centre is encouraged to use the signal-controlled crossing at the junction of West Tower Street and Scotch Street and follow the clearly signed pedestrian route to Market Street.
What disruption should people expect?
There will continue to be temporary bus stop relocations, changes to pedestrian routes and construction activity between 7am and 5pm, Monday to Friday, with occasional weekend working if required.
How can I find out more about this project?
Visit www.cumberland.gov.uk/carlisle-market-bus-hub
Cumberland Council would like to thank residents, businesses and visitors for their continued patience and understanding while the works take place, as we continue to deliver these important improvements to the Market Hall area.
Residents can find out more about roadworks and highway maintenance by visiting www.cumberland.gov/uk.roads or by contacting the Highways Hotline on 0300 373 3736.
Further updates will be provided as the work progresses.