A £100m programme, led by Cumberland Council, is set to re-shape Carlisle city centre by creating greener, more accessible environment for residents, businesses and visitors alike.
Backed by national funding streams including the UK Government’s Towns Fund, Future High Streets Fund, UK Shared Prosperity Fund, and the Borderlands Inclusive Growth Deal, the coordinated initiative is designed to stimulate local growth, support high street renewal, and ensure Carlisle is fit for the future.
Market Square and Greenmarket
The transformation of Market Square and Greenmarket has now been completed, marking a major milestone in the city’s regeneration journey. The revamped space will officially reopen on Saturday 18 October, with celebrations running from 10am to 4pm. The event will include live entertainment, local traders, and community activities, offering residents a first look at the city’s new public heart.
Carlisle Southern Gateway
Significant progress is also being made at the Carlisle Southern Gateway, part of the wider Carlisle Town Deal. The project is improving key routes, junctions, and pedestrian areas to enhance movement through the city and support local businesses.
Phase 4b works continue this month at Bar Solo and along the remaining Botchergate junctions and footways, where new paving, kerb lines, and crossings are being installed. From Monday 13 October, a five-night closure of Botchergate Junction – including The Crescent, English Street, and Court Brow – will allow for resurfacing, cycle lane installation, new markings, and upgraded traffic signals. These night-time works are designed to minimise disruption and improve traffic flow once complete.
Further improvements are planned between late 2025 and early 2026 on English Street, including safety upgrades and restoration around The Well, followed by footway reconstruction and new street furniture on The Crescent from January to April 2026.
Carlisle Station Gateway
Another major investment, the £27 million Carlisle Station Gateway Project, will transform the city’s main transport hub. Funded through the Borderlands Inclusive Growth Deal, the scheme will enhance accessibility, modernise facilities, and create a welcoming southern entrance to the station and wider city centre.
Network Rail is scheduled to begin enabling works in October 2025, including the demolition of a sandstone wall and outbuildings to make way for the new southern gateway. Later in winter 2025, public realm improvements will start outside The Griffin and Costa in Court Square North, with plans to relocate the historic Lawson Fountain as part of the redesign.
Cllr Mark Fryer, Leader of Cumberland Council, said: ‘These projects represent a once-in-a-generation opportunity to transform Carlisle for the future. In August 2024, we completed the vibrant new Devonshire Street. This year, Market Square and Greenmarket have been finalised, adding another key destination to the city centre.
‘Looking ahead, the modernised Southern Gateway and improved station facilities will continue this transformation, creating spaces that are more attractive, accessible and welcoming.
‘Together, they will not only boost our local economy but also make Carlisle a city we can all be proud of. In Carlisle alone, more than £100 million is being invested, and we are continuing to transform the city centre into a vibrant place where people want to live, work, learn, and spend time’
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