Next phase of University of Cumbria Citadels regeneration project begins

In recent months, extensive preparatory work has been taking place behind the scenes, including detailed site surveys and over £1 million of asbestos removal. This work has now been completed, revealing clean building structures ready for redevelopment.

The university has appointed respected contractor Graham for this phase. Their team will now begin final survey work in preparation to demolish the 1970s Kramer Building, a key step in opening up the site for the development to follow.

Demolition work is scheduled to begin later this month. Ahead of this, a temporary site boundary will be installed to ensure the safety of the public and site teams.

The Kramer Building will be dismantled in small, carefully managed sections until its height is reduced below that of neighbouring buildings on English Street. Once this is achieved, larger machinery will be brought in to complete the remainder of the demolition. This process is expected to conclude by the end of June 2026.

The majority of the £77.5 million required for the Citadels project is being provided by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government through the Borderlands Inclusive Growth Deal, with over £5.2 million contributed via the Carlisle Town Deal Fund.

Tracey Slaven, Chief Transformation Officer at the University of Cumbria, said:

“This is a pivotal time for both the university and the wider city. Moving into the next phase of this project brings us another step closer to realising our shared vision for the Citadels site.

“We will continue working closely with our partners, including Cumberland Council and the Borderlands Partnership, as we progress towards appointing a main contractor. The new Citadels development is on track to welcome its first students in 2028."

Images are artist impressions of the new Citadels development.