Work to transform the centre of Carlisle in a multi-million-pound project is set to start next week.
Cumberland Council’s Market Square and Greenmarket Regeneration Project in Carlisle will transform a 6,000sq m area into an events space for activities and gatherings.
The cash to pay for the project has come from the Government and work will be carried out by contractor Eric Wright Civil Engineering Limited.
From Monday, August 12, site offices and welfare facilities will be set up on Castle Street and site engineers and surveyors will complete final checks of the site area.
From Monday, August 19, a construction compound will be set up, with fencing installed on the highway at the end of Castle Street, near Specsavers.
The authority said: “This will impact traffic and pedestrian flow, but full signs will be provided to help with navigation. A walkway for pedestrians will always be maintained, although its location may change periodically for construction purposes.
“Construction work will begin, including the relocation of the war memorial with the support of the British Legion.”
The project is expected to be completed by spring 2025.
The authority has confirmed that the summer International Market, planned for Thursday August 22 until Monday August 26 and Remembrance Sunday commemorations on Sunday November 10 will go ahead as planned.
The council said it emphasised that all businesses would remain open as usual and encourages residents and visitors to continue supporting them.
The regeneration project will include the removal of two trees in the area, as detailed surveys have revealed that they are affected by ash dieback.
The council said tree removal was always a last resort, strictly following its policy to remove trees only when they are dead, dying, diseased, or pose a safety hazard. To enhance the local environment, the council will plant four new trees to replace the two that need to be removed.
Leader of Cumberland Council Mark Fryer said: “The regeneration projects we are managing in Carlisle highlight Cumberland Council’s commitment to enhancing our already attractive and historic city.
“The Market Square and Greenmarket Regeneration Project will transform Carlisle’s city centre into a vibrant, multi-functional space that will benefit both residents and visitors.
“We are dedicated to keeping the public and local businesses informed throughout the process, and we appreciate everyone’s patience as we work to make our city even more inviting.”
