Contracts have been finalised for the £28 million Carlisle Station Gateway project, marking a major milestone in the city’s plans to transform the area surrounding its historic rail station. The ambitious scheme aims to revitalise key parts of the city centre, including Court Square, George Square, and nearby streets, improving accessibility and creating a more welcoming environment for visitors and residents alike.
The Carlisle Station Gateway project will involve the pedestrianisation of Court Square and the relocation of Lawson’s Monument, which currently stands at the heart of the square. The redevelopment seeks to address long-standing issues caused by heavy vehicle traffic that has dominated the area, creating a space that is safer and more pleasant for pedestrians.
A report submitted to Cumberland Council described the project as being in the early stages of design development, with two design and build contracts now formally agreed. Eric Wright Construction has been appointed to lead works on the southern side of the station, known as George Square, while Story Contracting will oversee the northern side, known as Court Square. Work on both sides of the station is expected to be completed by January 2027.
Cumberland Council confirmed that it is working closely with Network Rail and Avanti West Coast to ensure the Carlisle Station Gateway project is successfully delivered. The redevelopment will include improvements to nearby routes such as Botchergate, English Street, the Crescent, and Court Brow, which are already undergoing major refurbishment works.
As part of the wider regeneration effort, Botchergate junction and several adjoining roads will close for overnight works from Monday to Friday, between 8pm and 6am, to allow resurfacing, the installation of new cycle lanes, upgraded traffic signals, and refreshed road markings. Cumberland Council has advised motorists to follow signed diversions during this period.
The redevelopment will extend beyond road improvements, with a focus on enhancing public spaces around the station. An artist’s impression released by the council shows a vibrant new square in front of the station entrance, featuring benches, trees, and landscaped gardens. The redesign aims to transform the space into a welcoming point of arrival for those coming to Carlisle by train, setting a positive first impression for visitors to the city.
Planning approval for the Carlisle Station Gateway project was granted earlier this year, following detailed consultation and heritage considerations. Court Square, Collier Lane, and the Citadel Railway Station area all form part of the £28 million redevelopment plan, which Cumberland Council said will begin construction in earnest this autumn once ongoing highway works are completed.
A key feature of the scheme is the careful relocation and restoration of Lawson’s Monument, a memorial dedicated to Sir Wilfrid Lawson, a former Member of Parliament for Carlisle, Cockermouth, and Camborne, who was a prominent advocate for peace, temperance, and social reform. The monument, originally erected in 1909, was moved from its original location in 1936 to make way for underground facilities. Under the new plans, it will be returned to its former position within the redesigned Court Square.
Cumberland Council’s planning officer, Stephen Daniel, described the design as acceptable and likely to have a significantly positive impact on the station and the surrounding listed buildings. Council Leader Mark Fryer welcomed the development, calling it “excellent news for Carlisle.” He said the project would play a key role in regenerating the city and improving access to the station, while restoring a part of local history by reinstating the fountain and monument to their original setting.
The Carlisle Station Gateway project forms part of a wider investment strategy for the city, designed to support economic growth, improve transport links, and enhance public spaces. By creating safer pedestrian routes and modernising the station’s surroundings, the scheme aims to make Carlisle more attractive for residents, commuters, and visitors, while also supporting local businesses and encouraging further development in the area.
When completed in early 2027, the Carlisle Station Gateway project is expected to stand as one of the most significant urban regeneration efforts in the city’s recent history. Through collaboration between Cumberland Council, Network Rail, and Avanti West Coast, the scheme promises to deliver a gateway that reflects both Carlisle’s heritage and its ambitions for the future.
