A historic well has been found by workers during a £6.6m revamp of part of Carlisle.
The Carlisle Southern Gateway project, by Cumberland Council, is on the city’s English Street and aims to regenerate the southern entrance to the city. It is expected to be completed by this spring.
Recent work has focused on installing new kerb lines, drainage systems, bus shelters, ducting, streetlights, and street furniture, alongside landscaping to enhance biodiversity and improve the city centre’s environment.
Funded by the Government, the £6.6 million project forms part of the wider Southern Gateway initiative scheme which secured £19.7 million for improvements for Carlisle’s highways and pedestrian network.
During excavation near the Citadel, workers found a well.
Cumberland Council said plans were already underway to incorporate the well into the pavement design, allowing pedestrians to view the relic and preserve an important part of Carlisle’s history.
For safety, a temporary tarmac cover will be placed over the well until a specialised glass installation was completed.
English Street is currently closed to traffic for around 16 weeks for drainage, duct crossings, and carriageway work.
Pedestrian access is being maintained at all times, though walkways may change as work progresses.
At Botchergate junction, progress includes the removal and backfilling of old public toilets and the use of temporary traffic measures.
Upcoming construction work near The Griffin will include the installation of new kerb lines, improved drainage, paving, landscaping, a dedicated cycle path, and new seating areas.
