Bitts Park Lodge restoration project takes major step forward
The building, which was badly damaged during flooding in 2015, has stood empty ever since
Final preparations are being made, so a restoration project which will bring the iconic Bitts Park Lodge, in Carlisle, back into use, can begin.
The lodge is being brought back to life, thanks to an innovative partnership bringing together Cumberland Council, Story Contracting, Story Homes, Carlisle College and Habitat for Humanity Great Britain.
Now that plans are in place to restore the building, work is underway to look at its potential future use.
The building, which was badly damaged during flooding in 2015, has stood empty ever since.
Contractors have now started to set up the site compound and welfare cabins, installing a temporary power supply and erecting scaffolding around the building, in preparation for the restoration works, which are due to get underway later this month.
Visitors to the park and nearby residents may therefore see some additional vehicles, equipment and contractor activity, around the lodge, while these preparations are carried out.
Leader of Cumberland Council, Councillor Mark Fryer, said: "It is great to see that the final preparations are being made, so this important project can begin. With activity now beginning on the site, it is an exciting time for everyone involved.
“This partnership has the potential to show how the public, private and education sectors can work together, in different ways, to create wider community benefits."
Once the work on the project formally gets underway, it will begin with essential repair works carried out at no cost to the council, by Story Homes and Story Contracting. Using their own teams and supply chain, they will carry out surveys and repairs, to return the lodge to a dry and secure condition. Works will include roof repairs, replacement joinery, new doors and windows, electrical and insulation works and general preparation.
The council will be inviting Carlisle College to participate in works experience and carry out elements of their construction courses on site.