Govt commits £13.5m to Carlisle Station Gateway

Cumberland Council and Network Rail will use the funds from the Department for Transport to improve navigation around and inside the railway station, ensuring a more welcoming entry into the city.

The £13.5m from DfT builds upon the £27m already awarded to the Carlisle Station Gateway project through the Borderlands Inclusive Growth Deal. The money supports the redesign of George Square and Court Square, the enhancement of the area’s public realm, and the creation of a car park.

“Carlisle station is a beautiful piece of railway heritage and an important gateway to the city,” said Hannah Clarke, the project sponsor for Network Rail.

“This investment will transform the experience for the thousands of passengers who use the station every day, making it easier to navigate, more accessible, and better connected to the city centre,” she continued.

“We’re working closely with Cumberland Council and Avanti West Coast to deliver improvements that passengers will see and feel from spring 2026.”

Cumberland Council Leader Cllr Mark Fryer described the financial award as “a major step forward for Carlisle’s regeneration”.

“The Carlisle Station Gateway Project will not only transform the station environment but also create opportunities for economic growth and improved connectivity for residents and visitors alike,” he continued. “It is positive to see further investment on the back of the initial Borderlands Deal funding.”

“These enhanced facilities will continue the station’s transformation, creating spaces that are more attractive, accessible, and welcoming, ensuring that when people arrive in Carlisle, they are greeted by a station that reflects the city’s vibrancy and ambition, and sets the tone for exploring everything our area has to offer.”

Eric Wright Construction and Story Contracting have been appointed as main contractors for the two squares, with Eric Wright charged with George Square and Story focussed on Court Square.

Work has been ongoing for some time on the project, with several projects nearing the finishing line.

These include a new pub, which will open in the restored first-class waiting room on platform four, and a customer car park, both of which will open in spring.

In summer 2026, the north station’s reconfiguration will be complete.

Fast forward to February 2027 and travellers will have a new pedestrianised station entrance to the north. The car park will also be relocated to south of the station.

Lifts and staircases will be installed throughout 2027, with the year concluding with a fully accessible station.

The design for the Carlisle Station Gateway project was drawn up by BDP.  The project team for its planning application included WSP and BB Heritage Studio.