Story Contracting, on behalf of Cumberland Council, is set to begin the next phase of regeneration works in Carlisle city centre – marking a significant step forward in the Council’s Carlisle Place programme.
Botchergate Junction improvements begin
From Monday 13 October, essential improvement works will take place at Botchergate Junction as part of the Carlisle Southern Gateway scheme.
The works will take place overnight for five nights (8pm–6am) and will require a full closure of Botchergate Junction, including The Crescent, English Street, and Court Brow.
These night-time closures will allow teams to safely complete resurfacing, install a new cycle lane, upgrade traffic signals, and refresh road markings. Once complete, these upgrades will improve traffic flow and safety during the day, making journeys through the city centre smoother and more efficient for all road users.
To ensure safety for both the public and the Story team, road users are asked to follow clearly signed diversion routes during the closure period. A full map of the works and diversions is available on One Network.
These improvements form part of the £27 million Carlisle Station Gateway project, which is supported by £20 million from the Borderlands Inclusive Growth Deal. The investment is helping Cumberland Council to revitalise Carlisle’s city centre – enhancing key routes and public spaces, improving accessibility, and creating a more welcoming environment for residents, businesses, and visitors alike.
Next steps for Carlisle Southern Gateway
Further improvement works are planned throughout 2026, including:
- Early 2026: Safety improvements and enhancements to ‘the Well’ on English Street.
- January to April 2026: Footway reconstruction and new street furniture on The Crescent.
Carlisle Station Gateway
Alongside the Southern Gateway works, Story Contracting is delivering elements of the Carlisle Station Gateway project on behalf of Cumberland Council – a major regeneration initiative designed to transform the areas around Carlisle Railway Station and improve connections across the city.
The wider Station Gateway project will modernise the approach to the station, improve accessibility, and create high-quality public spaces for pedestrians and cyclists.
Story Contracting’s work includes public realm improvements in Court Square – outside The Griffin, Costa, and Carlisle Station Hotel – along with upgrades at Court Square Brow to improve access for pedestrians and cyclists.
Story is proud to play a key role in delivering these transformational projects, helping to unlock Carlisle’s potential as a vibrant and well-connected regional hub.
