Cumberland Council has announced the progression of the Carlisle Station Gateway project, marking a pivotal step forward in the revitalisation of Carlisle city centre.
The Station Gateway, along with the University of Cumbria’s new Citadels Campus directly opposite, has received more than £90m of investment from the Borderlands Inclusive Growth Deal.
Complemented by additional developments by Cumberland Council, the aim is to maximise the area’s potential and attract and retain more people at the heart of the city.
Carlisle Station Gateway targets the rejuvenation of both the city and the broader Borderlands region, with Carlisle being an interchange for services across Cumbria, Northumberland and the South of Scotland.
The project will include several key components:
Northern Gateway: Court Square - Partial pedestrianisation of Court Square and improved pedestrian connections to and from the station.
Station Interior: Enhancements to the Court Square access, improved facilities for customers and an upgraded and welcoming entrance from George Square.
Southern Gateway: George Square (station entrance from James Street) - Public car parking being relocated to George Square to reduce the vehicular traffic at Court Square together with drop-off and bus replacement services.
Enabling Streets and Junctions: A focus on improving access at Water Street and Court Square Brow to improve access to the station, particularly for pedestrians and cyclists.
The next phase of the Carlisle Station Gateway Project will be improvements to the Water Street / James Street junction.
The construction phase is set to commence Tuesday 29 August, with Story Contracting Limited establishing their on-site welfare accommodation near Matalan's car park.
Roadworks on a number of streets will begin week commencing Monday 4 September 2023, and are anticipated to continue until approximately January 2024, subject to weather conditions.
Cllr Mark Fryer, Leader of Cumberland Council and Borderlands Partnership Board Member, said:
"This investment for Carlisle Railway Station has been several years in the planning now and will improve both the station and immediate area for residents, students, local businesses, and our visitors.
"The station serves over two million passengers annually and is a central hub for travel across the Borderlands region, so this investment will greatly benefit everyone.
"I am looking forward to seeing the transformation take place and would like to extend my gratitude to everyone for their incredible patience and support during these developments."