Demolition of The Pools in Carlisle gets underway

The Pools, built in the 70s, on James Street and the empty building that used to be a Staples are set to be demolished, but Matalan will remain open, according to Cumberland Council.

The council have stated that there are no road closures to be put in place.

In its first week of demolition, workers from Eric Wright Civil Engineering – the contractor for the job – have set up their work area behind the Staples unit and Matalan.

The council said that disruption will be kept to a minimum and that James Street, Water Street, and George Street will stay open, as well as the businesses in the area.

The footpath under the bridge is shut in the meantime, which could result in delays in pedestrian journeys.

Entrance to footpath at James Street closed as demolition job gets underway (Image: Ollie Rawlinson)

Entrance to footpath at Nelson Bridge closed as demolition job gets underway (Image: Ollie Rawlinson)

The Turkish Baths building will remain in tact but closed, the council added.

The demolition of The Pools’ building is a phase of a grander redevelopment project the council is running, which involves rejuvenating the railway station.

Called the Station Gateway Project, it involves the partial pedestrianisation of Court Square and improved walking connections to and from the station.

It is also planned to see a creation of a new southern ent5rance to the station with a new car park and public plaza.

The council also plans to upgrade the entrance to the station from George Square with secure cycle parking included, and an overall plan to improve cycle and pedestrian access to and from the station entirely.