Major regeneration works underway in Carlisle city centre

Regeneration works in Carlisle city centre are set to transform the area as part of Cumberland Council’s ongoing commitment to creating a greener and more accessible space.

Work on the Carlisle Southern Gateway started in January with the removal of planting and soil from English Street, which will be reused at other council-owned green spaces across the city. From 12th January until mid-February, kerb replacement and paving installation will be carried out between the kerb line and cycleway, lasting four weeks. Evening road resurfacing is scheduled from 9th February for one week, between 7pm and 6am, with closures in place during this time.

The Carlisle Station Gateway Project will also see significant improvements over the coming months, including a new drainage system, the installation of rain gardens, and foundations for relocating Lawson’s Monument to Court Square. Work on this phase is expected to take four months and follows preparatory works such as filling in the former public toilets and creating temporary road access.

During the works, a small car park in front of Carlisle Station will remain closed, but visitors can use the car park to the station's left, which offers up to 20 minutes of free parking. Cumberland Council is advising pedestrians to use signed routes for their safety during these developments.

Changes to The Crescent and Cumberland’s commitment

Improvements are also underway at The Crescent as part of the wider Carlisle Southern Gateway. The area will see new kerbs, paving, and modern street furniture as part of works set to be completed by spring 2026. Bus services in the area are temporarily stopping at Lowther Street, Botchergate, and Warwick Road instead.

Cllr Mark Fryer, Leader of Cumberland Council, said: "This is brilliant news; it is like the final piece of the jigsaw in making Carlisle a better place for the future. We are very proud of Carlisle and all of Cumberland’s communities. These improvements will make it easier for people to access the city, enjoy the fantastic facilities on offer, and attract visitors, which will boost our economy. It is all about creating better connectivity for residents and visitors alike."

"I would like to stress that during these works businesses are very much open and rely on your support throughout the year – so please support them as much as you can."

Wider regeneration efforts

Part of a £100 million investment in Carlisle’s regeneration, the works aim to reshape the city into a greener and more dynamic place. Cumberland Council anticipates enhanced accessibility, improved local growth, and a city centre ready to thrive in the future.

Cumberland Council has reassured businesses that they will remain open throughout the works and have pledged to work closely with them to minimise disruption.

Further updates are expected as construction progresses, and the council has expressed gratitude to residents and businesses for their cooperation throughout the project.