Start with the Park, Carlisle

Start with the Park is a transformative regeneration project aimed at enhancing the green spaces of Carlisle.

Backed by £2.6 million in government funding from the Carlisle Town Deal, this initiative marks the first phase of the Greenway.

The Greenway is a visionary green travel route designed to connect St Cuthbert's Garden Village (SCGV) with Carlisle city centre and the surrounding countryside.

For more information, see St Cuthbert's Garden Village.

Project Objective

The primary goal of Start with The Park is to revitalise Hammond’s Pond, creating a more accessible, sustainable, and community-focused space.

The project will bring a variety of improvements, including:

upgraded play areas
a brand-new skate park for recreational activities
new tree planting and enhanced footpaths
addressing drainage issues within the park
improved connectivity to Eden Valley Hospice
development of active travel walking routes in collaboration with Active Cumbria to support health and well-being
improved wayfinding
Multi-use Games Area (MUGA) improvements
car park enhancements
new cycle storage and repair point
new entrance signage

Additionally, new crossing points will be added along a busy road, ensuring safe access and better links between Hammond’s Pond and SCGV, which will help promote sustainable and active travel options in the area.

Community Engagement

The project team has been actively engaging with key local stakeholders, including:

Friends of Hammonds Pond
The Rock
Petteril Community Panel
Youth Zone
Eden Valley Hospice

Additionally, a wider public consultation was held in April 2025 where valuable feedback was gathered.

Impact on local business

Signage will be provided to assist navigation around the two construction sites.

Delivery routes will be adjusted and clearly marked to make sure businesses can have continued access during construction.

All businesses in the area will remain open as usual throughout the construction period. We encourage everyone to continue supporting local shops and services during this time.

Impact on residents

To minimise dust and noise, construction methods will be carefully implemented in compliance with regulations on permissible noise levels.

Clear information signs will be placed at park entrances to keep residents informed about ongoing work.

If you have any concerns can email our project team.

Email: [email protected]

Accessibility during construction

The park will remain open as usual throughout the construction period.

Restricted areas will be clearly marked, with advance warning signs in place to ensure public safety.

Project Timeline

The design phase for active travel routes is currently underway and is expected to be completed by the end of summer, with construction scheduled to begin in winter 2025.

Improvements to the play park will be carried out gradually over the next two years, with smaller enhancements taking place throughout the year. Work is expected to begin in March 2025.

Completed Works

Drainage installation from the Multi Use Games Area (MUGA) to the café, improving water management in the park
Demolition of the disused aviary, clearing space for future improvements in the depot area
Clearance of debris from the Wire Mire Beck, west of the Blackwell Road culvert, to support better park drainage and water flow
Multi Use Games Area (MUGA) - fully refurbished with new surfacing, fencing, goals, and line markings
Play area upgrades - the junior play area now features new wet pour surfacing, and fresh infant play equipment has been installed to make playtime even better

Current and Upcoming Works

Skatepark Development – A tender is currently live for the design and construction of a brand-new concrete skatepark, shaped by local consultation
Cycle Facilities – Design is ongoing for a new cycle shelter and repair point, which will encourage active travel to and from the park