Work is set to start on Carlisle’s Turkish Baths as part of the city’s multi-million-pound Station Gateway Project.
Cumberland Council said that work will begin on Monday, August 19, for around 23 weeks, weather permitting.
Following the demolition of The Pools on James Street, Michael Thompson Limited will begin repointing and reroofing the Turkish Baths.
James Street will remain open to vehicles, but the pavement next to the site will be closed, with signs provided for pedestrian safety.
Cumberland Council said it was working closely with campaign group The Friends of Carlisle Victorian and Turkish Baths to ensure the project meets community expectations and the investment secures positive outcomes for this historic building.
The friends wants to keep the 114-year-old facility open but in October 2022, the then Carlisle City Council agreed to mothball the building because it would cost around £26,500 a year to run.
The Grade II listed Turkish Baths opened on the 20 September 1909 and were an integral part of Carlisle’s Victorian Public Baths. Records show that by 1957 over 100,000 people were using the baths.
The lavishly-tiled Turkish Baths have original internal decorative tiling and glazed faience work by the renowned company Minton and Hollins of Stoke.
It is the only one of its type remaining in the North West.
The Carlisle Station Gateway Project includes:
- Northern Gateway (Court Square):
- Pedestrianisation of Court Square to create a high-quality space for pedestrians and cyclists.
- Improved walking connections to and from Carlisle station.
- Southern Gateway (George Square):
- Development of a new southern entrance to the station, including new car parking facilities and a public plaza.
- Relocation of public car parking from the northern station car park to the south entrance, reducing vehicle traffic at Court Square.
- Station interior:
- Upgraded entrance from George Square with improvements to the station undercroft for better access.
- Provision of secure cycle parking.
- Enhancements at Water Street and Court Square Brow to improve access to the station, with a focus on pedestrian and cyclist needs.
