Work is set to underway on a site earmarked for a £77.5 million regeneration scheme in Carlisle.

As part of the planned transformation of the Citadels', demolition will soon start on Paton House Buildings at the rear of the site.

Demolition of the Paton House buildings is a key part of setting the groundworks for the ambitious city centre redevelopment project.

A spokesperson for the partnership said: “As part of the Borderlands Inclusive Growth Deal, £50 million of funding has been allocated for the second phase of work to bring new purpose to The Citadels."

“Plans are in place to transform the Citadels Buildings and the adjacent site to become a new home for the University of Cumbria."

"This site can, potentially, be transformative to the character and status of Carlisle and the wider Borderlands area."

The Citadels redevelopment project is being led by the University of Cumbria, Cumbria County Council and Carlisle City Council.

This initial stage of works is supported by Cumbria Local Enterprise Partnership’s £1.782m contribution from the Local Growth Fund.

As part of the Borderlands Inclusive Growth Deal, £50 million of funding has been allocated to transform the Citadels Buildings and the adjacent site to become a new home for the University of Cumbria, subject to Government approval.

The university and both councils will be working alongside Cumbria LEP and One Public Estate as key partners.

The demolition work will be undertaken by a contractor working on the partners' behalf.

The work will begin this week and will be completed by autumn 2021.

Work has been restricted to 8am and 5pm, Monday to Friday and all efforts have been made within the contract to control noise, vibration, dust and disturbance.

Access to Bush Brow will be closed from Victoria Viaduct and also from Borough Street when required during the works and alternative arrangements will be in place for pedestrians.

"There are a number of options being explored and any proposals will be subject to public consultation."