A £2.17m project has been launched to pave the way for regeneration of a site in Carlisle.
Cumberland Council began work on the Caldew Riverside site last month.
The 2.2-hectare brownfield site, between the River Caldew and the West Coast Main Line, is owned by the council and identified in the Carlisle Local Plan as a prime regeneration opportunity.
Currently made up of scrubland, hardstanding, and trees, the site also includes the Caldew Riverside car park.
The authority said: “The site has long held untapped potential.
“This project will make the land safe and ready for future development, creating opportunities for the community while protecting the local environment.
“Work will include removing harmful substances and safeguarding water sources, ensuring the site is clean and prepared for the next chapter.”
Work is expected to be completed by mid-2026.
During this time, the Caldew Riverside car park will remain open. Alternative parking is available nearby at West Walls and Viaduct car parks.
Funding for the project was secured from the Carlisle Town Deal, the Brownfield Land Release Fund and Homes England.
Story Contracting Ltd has been appointed to deliver the work.
A condition of the Brownfield Land Release Fund grant is to bring the site forward for residential housing by March 31 2028, and the next stage for the council will be to identify an appropriate development route for the site.
Mark Fryer, leader of Cumberland Council, said: “This is a vital investment in Carlisle’s future. Remediating this site paves the way for meaningful development, and this investment will unlock new housing opportunities.
“This is another successful funding win by the teams at Cumberland Council, demonstrating our commitment to making Carlisle and the wider Cumberland area the place to be.
“Once remediated, the Caldew Riverside site could become home to a new housing development, boosting footfall, supporting local trade, and adding vibrancy to the heart of the city.”
The total project budget of £2.17m comprises £850,000 from the Town Deal Capital Accelerated Funding, which was secured in 2021, £22,000 from Homes England, and £1,300,000 from the Brownfield Land Release Fund, secured in March this year.
