Clean-up project for new homes under way

The council expects the works to be completed by mid-2026

A £2.7m clean up project of scrubland to make way for new homes has begun.

Cumberland Council says its land remediation scheme at the Caldew Riverside site will support economic growth in Carlisle city centre.

The 2.2-hectare brownfield site, between the River Caldew and the West Coast Main Line, is owned by the council and made up of hardstanding vegetation and the Caldew Riverside car park.

Leader of Cumberland Council Mark Fryer said remediating the site "paves the way for meaningful development."

Funded by the Carlisle Town Deal, the Brownfield Land Release Fund and Homes England, the project aims to make the land safe and ready for future development.

Story Contracting Ltd has been appointed to deliver the works, which are expected to be completed by mid-2026.

The Labour-led local authority says the Caldew Riverside car park will remain open during enabling works, with alternative parking at West Walls and Viaduct car parks.

Works, which form part of the council's Carlisle Local Plan, will include the removal of harmful substances and safeguarding water sources.

A condition of its Brownfield Land Release Fund grant is to bring the site forward for housing development by 31 March 2028, the council says.