SIGNIFICANT progress is being made on the Carlisle station project with the commencement of the demolition of The Pools.

The £28 million Carlisle Station Gateway Project aims to support the growth of passenger traffic, making the station more user-friendly and accessible, as well as prioritising green transport options.  

The old 1970s pool building on James Street and the empty Staples building are being demolished as part of the project. 

Eric Wright Civil Engineering is the contractor working on the demolition job.

The Carlisle Station Gateway Project comprises four key components:

Northern Gateway
It revolves around removing vehicles from Court Square to create an 'attractive high-quality space' for pedestrians and cyclists. Feature paving bands in local Lazonby red sandstone and the addition of a tree-lined waiting area will centre this pedestrian-friendly refurbishment.

Station building and interior
Improvements will be made to the platforms from the north. Cyclists will benefit from the addition of secure parking amenities, while the undercroft and platform accessibility will undergo improvements.

Southern Gateway Gateway (George Square)
This includes a new station entrance, car park and public plaza. All public vehicle parking, coach services and pick-up areas will relocate here from Court Square to alleviate a substantial amount of traffic from Court Square. 

Enabling streets and junctions
Street and junction improvements at Court Square Brow and Water Street will promote safe and convenient access for pedestrians and cyclists. 

Timeline:
In terms of the timeline for the project, the Water Street junction modifications began in September of 2023 and are set to finish by the end of January 2024. 

The first phase of the George Square revamp requires site clearance, including the demolition of a 1970s pool building which has begun and the former Staples retail facility, carrying through to Spring 2024.

Construction of Phase 1 of George Square will commence following the demolition.

Court Square public realm work is expected to take place in 2025.

Speaking earlier this year, leader of Cumberland Council, Cllr Mark Fryer, said: "This investment for Carlisle Railway Station has been several years in the planning and will improve both the station and immediate area for residents, students, local businesses, and our visitors.

"The station serves over two million passengers annually and is a central hub for travel across the Borderlands region, so this investment will greatly benefit everyone.

"I am looking forward to seeing the transformation take place and would like to extend my gratitude to everyone for their incredible patience and support during these developments," he said.