Drivers are warned to expect delays as a raft of major roadworks are set to take place in Carlisle over the coming weeks.
The work includes ongoing planned structural repairs on the Eastern Way bridge, alongside gas mains replacement work by Northern Gas Networks on Warwick Road.
Both schemes will be delivered using a multi‑way traffic signals.
The work means that traffic lights will be in operation on routes into and out of the city, and drivers are advised to allow extra time for journeys where possible.
Eastern Way
On Eastern Way, the council will continue planned work to repair the bridge deck joints following detailed specialist inspections.
Cumberland Council said a range of solutions were explored. It said after taking professional engineering advice, completing the permanent repairs this year was the most appropriate and responsible option.
The work will include targeted hydro demolition and reconstruction where required.
The authority added: “The intention had been to complete the Eastern Way work ahead of the start of work on Warwick Road.
“However, during construction, unforeseen conditions were identified, including sections of concrete in poorer condition than expected.
“Addressing this safely has required additional work, including the installation of reinforcement, concrete pours and curing time.”
As a result, the programme has been extended until Friday June 26.
Durranhill
Phase 2 of the work at Durranhill is planned from late September to early December. This phase will complete bridge joint replacements on the top side of the structure. More information will be shared nearer the time, the council said.
Warwick Road
Northern Gas Networks will carry out essential gas mains replacement work on Warwick Road from Monday May 11 until Monday June 24.
It will use a multi‑way traffic signal system.
The work was originally planned for last year but were intentionally postponed avoiding traffic disruption during other major schemes.
Northern Gas Networks has co-ordinated the timing of the work to take place outside of the football season and has worked closely with Brunton Park to minimise disruption, the council said.
However, it added that while co-ordination has taken place to reduce the overall impact, the overlap of work meant drivers should expect delays, particularly at peak times.
Willow Holme Road
Cumberland Council will be carrying out carriageway resurfacing work on Willow Holme Road from Monday May 11 for around 10 working days, subject to weather and site conditions.
The work will be carried out between 8pm and 3am, with the road remaining closed until 5am to allow for clean‑up and materials to cure safely.
Access will be maintained for emergency service vehicles throughout.
Dacre Road (next to Bitts Park)
Cumberland Council will be carrying out repair work to the Castle wall along Dacre Road, Carlisle, from its junction with Devonshire Walk/Mayor’s Drive, extending in a south‑easterly direction for around 220 metres.
Work began yesterday, Tuesday May 5 and is set to continue until Friday July 10, subject to weather and site conditions, and will be carried out during the day.
The repairs relate to a retaining wall supporting the footpath behind Carlisle Castle. Given the limited access to the embankment, the road will need to be closed to allow the works to be carried out safely using specialist equipment. The road will also be used to support the delivery of the works.
To support safety and access, routes for pedestrians and dismounted cyclists will be maintained at all times.
A suitable signed diversion route for vehicles will be in place via the A595, Castle Way, Bridge Street, Church Street and Devonshire Walk.
Access to and from Bitts Park Car Park will be unaffected and maintained throughout the works.
The works will be delivered under an official traffic regulation order to ensure the safety of both the workforce and the public.
Increase in roadworks in Carlisle
The council said this year was particularly busy for roadworks across Carlisle.
It added: “Many schemes were delayed during the Covid‑19 pandemic and are now being delivered alongside major infrastructure projects following the completion of the Carlisle Southern Link Road, which will open for public use on the afternoon of June 12.
“Utility companies work to national regulatory timescales and have statutory rights to access the highway, which limits how much their programmes can be moved.
“The council continues to work closely with utility providers to co-ordinate works wherever possible and minimise disruption.”
The council is encouraging drivers to:
- Allow extra time for journeys
- Consider travelling outside peak times where possible
- Follow signed diversions and temporary traffic management
- Check the council’s website and social media channels for updates
- Consider using one of the new enhanced bus routes as an alternative to driving: www.cumberland.gov.uk/bus-timetables
