A plan to demolish, re-build and repair large sections of the outer grounds at Carlisle Castle has been submitted for consideration.

The proposal, lodged by Carlisle City Council, involves partial demolition, re-build, and repair of approximately 50m of the existing footpath stone retaining wall; and repairs and reinstatement of the grassed surface of the footpath associated drainage below ground.

The intention is to reinstate the earth/grass footpath, wall, and drainage on a like for like basis re-using the existing stone that will be coursed, jointed, mortared and coped to match the existing. The reconstructed retaining wall will be built off its original stone foundations.

Construction is to "exactly match the existing with no ties, concrete foundation, cement or concrete fill used," plans assert.

Castle Bank footpath provides a path around the Castle inner and outer bailey from the western to north-eastern

boundaries.

The date from which the footpath was in public use is not known, however, aerial images of the site from 1948 clearly show the footpath at this time as an established route.

The National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) explains that local authorities should require an applicant to "describe the significance of any heritage assets affected, including any contribution made by their setting".

It is outlined by NPPF that: "Heritage assets are an irreplaceable resource that should be conserved in a manner appropriate to their significance, so that they can be enjoyed for their contribution to the quality of life of existing and future generations.

The decision maker must weigh the public benefits of the scheme against the nature and magnitude of the harm which would accrue from the proposed development in reaching an informed view on its acceptability."

In plans, the Carlisle City Council asserted: "By undertaking this work, it will lead to the continued use of the footpath and help to safeguard the grassed bank directly under the main Castle rampart wall.

"The proposed work will neither materially alter the existing composition nor detract from the existing setting.

They added: "It is considered that the harm caused by the proposal to the designated heritage assets would be less than substantial leaving significance undiminished."

In a letter to the council's planning authority, Historic England stated: "[We] support the application on heritage

grounds."

View more: carlisle.gov.uk.