News and Star readers have reacted to the news regarding the demolition of a historic building and the redevelopment of two others in Carlisle, after failed attempts to have them protected.

Plans for 157 homes on land at Cumwhinton Drive, Carleton Clinic will see the demolition of Westmorland House and the redevelopment of two other late 19th century buildings, Cumberland House and The Coppice.

Sean Reed, a resident of Parkland Village has attempted to rescue the Victorian architecture, making a bid to have them registered as having historical importance, either to Cumbria or the UK.

But Historic England and the Department for Culture, Media and Sport both decided that the buildings do not carry enough historical importance to be a protected asset.

Mr Reed has said it is "a real shame" and asked why the UK Government does not want to protect its own historic buildings.

He believes that given that the buildings previously served the NHS mental health facility, they are its responsibility.

As well as historic architecture, Mr Reed said that the buildings have a story to tell about changing attitudes to mental health: "There's a lot of history behind them, they were built for 'private customers' - landed gentry would send their relatives away (to the mental health facility)."

"If these buildings are taken away, that social history is lost but then the report that came back from the listing people was that there's plenty around the country."

Residents have also shared their anger on the News and Star’s Facebook page over the proposals.

Lisa Tanner said: “That’s another building gone to waste!”

Tom Crotty followed: “This building has character and should be kept. There’s enough houses in Carlisle with more in the pipeline.”

Shirley Wood added: “They’re going to demolish another great building to make into living accommodation. What a waste building toy homes that are crammed together with hardly any garden space.”

Sandra Parker feels that people are not in a position to afford accommodation, saying: “It has been mentioned that it will be turned into housing to buy. Not everyone is in position to buy, what about more affordable rental properties?”