The planning committee of Cumberland Council in the UK has approved proposals for Carlisle Station, featuring public realm upgrades and a new pedestrianised space, George Square, which is a component of the ‘Carlisle Southern Gateway’ project.
The first phase of the project will see the creation of George Square, a new public space featuring a pedestrian crossing over Water Street. This will link the station to the Turkish Baths and James Street.
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This first phase will also introduce landscaping and surface car parking on the former Pools and Staples sites.
The second phase will see the remaining Station Retail Park removed to allow for expanded parking facilities.
The project’s architectural design will integrate Carlisle’s historic aesthetic, utilising materials such as brick, sandstone, and stone setts.
This design will include textured paving and modular concrete furniture while the car park will be visually enhanced with ornamental and native planting to promote biodiversity.
The Carlisle Station Gateway project, with a budget of £27m ($35.25m), is supported by £20m from the Borderlands Inclusive Growth Deal. The project aims to improve the station’s accessibility and atmosphere for visitors and locals.
Construction is scheduled to commence in late 2025, following the completion of improvements to nearby roadways.
This project aligns with another development on the northern side of the station at Court Square, which received approval in February 2025.
This north-side redevelopment will also include public realm enhancements, pedestrianisation, and the relocation of the historic Lawson’s Monument.
Last month, Cumberland Council appointed Krol Corlett Construction as the lead contractor for the Carlisle Library transformation – part of the wider £19.7m Town Deal Investment Plan, which also includes strategic initiatives such as the Carlisle Southern Gateway improvements and enhancements at Tullie House.
