Two ‘ambitious’ design options to transform Carlisle’s Citadel rail station and its surrounding area will go on display in a new consultation.

Cumbria County Council is seeking the views of businesses, commuters, residents and visitors during the next feedback phase, running from today until February 14.

Last September, the first public consultation and it is as a result of this feedback, that the council has developed two design options, forming the basis of the latest consultation.

From today, people will be able to see the two distinct design options for improving the station and have their say.

Drop-in sessions to chat with council representatives and share views were held today and will be held again tomorrow, at the railway station, between 8am and 5pm.

Another set of events will take place on Friday, January 31 and Saturday, February 1 from 10am to 4pm at the Lanes Shopping Centre.

A display will also be in place throughout the consultation in the railway station and students and staff from the University of Cumbria will be consulted on campus in the city.

The project is being developed jointly by Cumbria County Council and Carlisle City Council working with Avanti, Network Rail and Cumbria LEP as key partners.

By improving the railway station and its facilities, partners want to encourage visitors to come again, help young people to stay, make the station work better for the public, and stimulate investment in Carlisle.

Councillor Stewart Young, leader of Cumbria County Council, said: “Our plans to improve Carlisle Railway Station are progressing and we’re now looking for people’s views on two options.

“We want to make sure we design a scheme that meets the needs of the station’s users, as well as enhancing the attractiveness of the station as the gateway to Carlisle city centre and the wider Borderlands area.

“The Government has allocated £15m of funding through the Borderlands Inclusive Growth Deal as the first phase of the Carlisle Station Gateway and Citadels project, subject to a business case being approved to secure this investment.”

Councillor John Mallinson, leader of Carlisle City Council, said: “The Carlisle Station Gateway and Citadels project will provide opportunities to improve the access arrangements, parking and will act as a catalyst for investment opportunities.”

Zina Nomicas, general manager at Avanti West Coast, said: “We’re excited to be working alongside our partners to progress these plans for the future of Carlisle station, as it is a key hub on our West Coast route.

“The station is integral to the local community, businesses and visitors it serves. This next stage of the public consultation will enable everyone to have their say on these ambitious designs ensuring they are the right fit.”

To find out more, visit: www.cumbria.gov.uk/CSGC.