• Client: Cumberland Council
• Contractor: Story Contracting
• Location: Carlisle City Centre, Cumbria
• Material: Lazonby Sandstone
• Project value: £80m +

Carlisle Southern Gateway Project – Paving a New Future with Lazonby Sandstone

Project Overview

The Carlisle Southern Gateway Project is a key regeneration initiative funded by the UK Government’s Town Deal Fund. The scheme is focused on improving pedestrian and cyclist accessibility while creating a safer, more attractive and environmentally conscious city centre. This stage of works targets the English Street and Devonshire Street area, transforming one of the main arrival routes into Carlisle.

The design aims to blend modern public infrastructure with Carlisle’s distinct historic character, using carefully selected materials that support both function and local identity.

Scope of Works

The public realm enhancements include:

• Widening pavements for improved pedestrian flow

• Introducing a bi-directional cycle lane (first phase of a wider cycle network)

• Installing new seating, planting, and trees to promote biodiversity and pollinator activity

• Adding cycle racks and raised pedestrian crossing points

• Redesigning traffic layout with a single-lane carriageway and revised turning lanes

• Consolidating five bus stops down to three, with one relocated to Victoria Viaduct

• Adjusting loading and taxi ranks to streamline movement while maintaining access

Supplying Red Sandstone Paving

We were proud to play a key role in this transformation by supplying extensive amounts of Lazonby sandstone—a high-quality red Cumbrian sandstone known for its strength, slip resistance, and deep natural colouration. The red sandstone paving was used throughout the pedestrian and cycle-friendly areas to establish a cohesive, high-performance surface.

This choice of material was not only practical, but also symbolic. Red sandstone paving connects modern improvements with Carlisle’s architectural heritage, known for its historic buildings constructed from the same regional stone.

Why Lazonby Sandstone?

• Durable and slip-resistant, ideal for heavy footfall in public areas

• Visually consistent with Carlisle’s traditional red sandstone streetscapes

• Locally sourced, supporting Cumbrian quarries and reducing transport emissions

• Natural weathering that improves with age, offering long-term visual appeal

Cultural and Environmental Benefits

By using Lazonby sandstone, the Southern Gateway project celebrates the identity of Carlisle while meeting modern performance standards. The red Cumbrian sandstone helps visually unify new infrastructure with the existing urban environment, all while reducing environmental impact through local sourcing.

Results & Impact

• Improved access and connectivity for pedestrians and cyclists

• Safer, more attractive public spaces that support sustainable transport

• Increased greenery and biodiversity through pollinator-friendly planting

• A revitalised city centre gateway that honours Carlisle’s heritage through natural stone

Conclusion

The Carlisle Southern Gateway Project is a strong example of how thoughtful design and the right materials can transform public spaces. The use of Lazonby sandstone, a trusted red sandstone paving solution, has helped deliver a project that is modern, functional, and unmistakably Cumbrian.