A start-up community interest company is looking for local businesses to occupy its newly won site at a popular park.

Tribe Carlisle CIC won the contract to operate Carlisle City Council’s new cultural and creative courtyard in Bitts Park, which will provide additional amenities to park users.

As part of the operating model at the new site, which will open this summer, all tenants will be required to reinvest back into local disadvantaged communities.

“I have fallen in love with Carlisle, having spent the last four years seeking, designing and delivering a new space for the city’s residents,” said Tribe director, Joe Gardham.

“Carlisle has an underbelly of grassroots creativity; this scheme at Bitts Park is the perfect space for the city’s creatives to express themselves.

“Also, in line with my own values, I believe we can demonstrate ‘profit with purpose’ throughout this project, and show how small, local, independent businesses can really reinvest in their community, whilst still making a decent living.

“From my many conversations and meetings in Carlisle over the years, I know that many residents in the city want and need this.”

Tenants can re-invest back into the community by donating a share of profits, sharing time and expertise, or creating job opportunities.

Without the presence of shareholders, all profits will be reinvested into the site and Bitts Park area, with an independent advisory group formed to support decision making and distribution.

Carlisle City Councillor and Portfolio holder for Culture, Heritage and Leisure, Stephen Higgs, said: "We have successfully secured £150,000 from the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) to support the design and creation of the site.

“The money comes from accelerated funding in relation to Carlisle’s overall Towns Fund application.

“The project is part of our overall plans to support the local economy post-Covid. These plans include short, medium and long term initiatives funded through the various government schemes.”

The temporary courtyard will be based close to Bitts Park car park and will be constructed from six upcycled containers.

A diverse mix of tenants are encouraged to come forward, including start-ups and well-established businesses ranging from food, drink, retail and arts.

Tribe director, Joe, added: “We are inviting expressions of interest now from anybody in Carlisle who has a small business and needs a stepping stone to their own space, or anyone sat on an idea without the opportunity to make it reality.”

There will be a selection of open days this month to view the spaces.

To express an interest, you can complete a form at www.tribecarlisle.co.uk