From Heritage to Higher Education: Carlisle’s Citadel to Reborn as £78m University Hub

The historic heart of Carlisle is entering a new chapter. The University of Cumbria’s £78 million Citadel Project — a landmark regeneration scheme that will transform the city’s iconic Grade I listed Citadel buildings into a modern university campus — is officially moving forward, with construction on track to begin in 2025 and doors expected to open in 2027.

A Vision to Transform Carlisle

Located at the southern gateway to Carlisle city centre, the Citadel towers have stood for nearly two centuries as symbols of the city’s heritage. Now, under the University of Cumbria’s ambitious redevelopment plan, they will become the foundation of a vibrant new university campus that blends history with innovation.

The Citadel Campus will serve as the University’s flagship site, supporting thousands of students, academics, and local partnerships. It’s seen as a major step in the city’s evolution — turning Carlisle into a true “University City” and strengthening its place on the educational and economic map of northern England.

A £78 Million Investment in Carlisle’s Future

Backed by the Borderlands Inclusive Growth Deal, along with funding from the UK Government, Cumberland Council, and the University of Cumbria, the Citadel Project represents a total investment of around £78.7 million.

This regeneration project is not only a milestone for higher education but also a crucial driver for Carlisle’s economy. It is expected to generate hundreds of construction jobs, new academic roles, and long-term business opportunities across the region.

“The Citadel development is more than a building project; it’s about reshaping opportunity in Carlisle,” said Professor Julie Mennell, Vice Chancellor of the University of Cumbria. “We’re proud to be creating a campus that reflects both the heritage and the future of this remarkable city.”

Blending Heritage with Modern Design

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Architecturally, the project will merge the historic Citadel towers with new sustainable buildings designed by Day Architectural, creating a space that respects the past while embracing modern educational needs.

Facilities will include:

• State-of-the-art teaching and research spaces

• Digital learning zones and innovation hubs

• Student support and business collaboration areas

• Public cafés, social spaces, and landscaped courtyards

Sustainability is a core focus, with the design targeting high environmental standards such as BREEAM Excellent, incorporating low-carbon heating systems, energy-efficient glazing, and green roofs. The integration of public areas also ensures that Carlisle residents can continue to enjoy and engage with the historic Citadel site.

Construction Timeline

According to the University and local council updates, site preparation and heritage surveys are underway, with full construction expected to begin in 2025.
The project is being delivered in phases, including:

• 2023–2024: Design development and planning finalisation

• 2025: Construction and structural restoration works begin

• 2026: Internal fit-out, landscaping, and heritage conservation

• 2027: Official opening and first student intake

The university has confirmed that the Citadel Campus remains on schedule for 2027, with significant progress made in pre-construction contracting and design refinement.

Community and Economic Impact

The Citadel Project is at the heart of Carlisle’s broader city-centre regeneration plan, complementing the Station Gateway improvements and other urban renewal projects.
It is expected to:

• Create hundreds of construction and academic jobs.

• Attract more than 10,000 students and staff into the city centre once operational.

• Strengthen local businesses through increased footfall and student spending.

• Preserve and enhance one of Carlisle’s most iconic landmarks.

For residents, the campus represents a renewed sense of pride and purpose. For students, it offers the chance to pursue higher education in a setting that connects history, community, and innovation.

Challenges and Progress

As with most major heritage redevelopments, the Citadel Project faces complex challenges — particularly in preserving the structural integrity of the listed buildings while adapting them for modern use.
The university is working closely with heritage conservation experts and Cumberland Council to ensure all work respects the site’s historical value.

Despite minor adjustments in scheduling and material supply, project leaders have confirmed that the development remains within financial and delivery expectations. Regular community engagement sessions are being held to keep the public informed about progress and upcoming milestones.

A Landmark for Education and Heritage

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Once completed, the University of Cumbria Citadel Campus will stand as a landmark of how higher education can drive regeneration, connecting academic excellence with local economic growth.

It will not only redefine the city skyline but also redefine Carlisle’s identity — transforming a historic fortress of the past into a hub of learning, innovation, and opportunity for future generations.

“By 2027, Carlisle will not only be a university city by name but by heart,” said a Cumberland Council spokesperson. “The Citadel project represents the beginning of a new story for our city — one that honours our heritage and embraces progress.”

About the University of Cumbria

Founded in 2007, the University of Cumbria is a leading UK institution dedicated to accessible, practical education across disciplines including health, business, teaching, arts, and environmental sciences. With campuses in Carlisle, Lancaster, Ambleside, and London, the university supports over 10,000 students annually.

The Citadel Project in Carlisle marks one of its most ambitious undertakings — symbolising its commitment to investing in regional growth, sustainability, and community-driven education.

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FAQs: University of Cumbria Citadel Project, Carlisle 

1. What is the University of Cumbria Citadel Project?

The University of Cumbria Citadel Project is a major £78 million redevelopment plan to transform Carlisle’s historic Grade I listed Citadel buildings into a modern university campus. It’s one of the largest regeneration projects in the city’s history, combining heritage preservation with sustainable education facilities.

2. Where is the new Citadel Campus located?

The new Citadel Campus will be located at the southern gateway of Carlisle city centre, on the site of the historic Citadel towers near Carlisle Railway Station. The project aims to restore this landmark location while creating a vibrant educational and community hub.

3. When will the University of Cumbria Citadel Campus open?

The Citadel Campus is scheduled to open in 2027. Construction is expected to begin in 2025, following completion of design work, heritage assessments, and early site preparations.

4. How much is being invested in the Citadel Project?

The total investment for the University of Cumbria Citadel Project is around £78.7 million. The funding comes from the Borderlands Inclusive Growth Deal, the UK Government, Cumberland Council, and the University of Cumbria itself.

5. What will the new Carlisle campus include?

The new campus will feature:

• Modern teaching and research facilities

• Digital learning zones and innovation labs

• Student support and social spaces

• Business Exchange and community hub

• Public café and landscaped outdoor areas

The design combines historic stone structures with contemporary glass and steel elements to create a modern, accessible learning environment.

6. How will the Citadel Project benefit Carlisle’s economy?

The project is expected to bring significant economic benefits, including:

• Creation of hundreds of construction and academic jobs

• Increased footfall and spending in the city centre

• Boosted local business partnerships

• Enhanced reputation for Carlisle as a University City

It will also attract students and professionals to live, study, and work in Carlisle, strengthening the local economy.

7. Who is funding and delivering the Citadel Project?

The University of Cumbria Citadel Project is being funded through multiple partners:

• Borderlands Inclusive Growth Deal

• UK Government

• Cumberland Council

• University of Cumbria

The design is led by Day Architectural, and construction management is overseen by Bowmer + Kirkland.

8. What makes the Citadel Project environmentally sustainable?

Sustainability is central to the campus design. The new buildings will meet BREEAM Excellent standards, featuring:

• Low-carbon heating and cooling systems

• Energy-efficient lighting and glazing

• Green roofs and landscaped areas

• Enhanced public transport access
  These measures ensure a low environmental footprint while maintaining historic integrity.

9. How will the project preserve Carlisle’s heritage?

Specialist conservation teams are working to restore and protect the Grade I and II listed Citadel towers. The redevelopment will preserve the original sandstone structures and integrate them into the new campus design. The project aims to balance heritage conservation with modern educational use, maintaining the city’s cultural identity.

10. Why is the Citadel Project important for the University of Cumbria and local students?

The new Citadel Campus will bring together teaching, research, and innovation in one central location. It will:

• Expand opportunities for local students to study without leaving the region.

• Strengthen the university’s connection with businesses and employers.

• Create a more vibrant and inclusive university community.

By 2027, Carlisle will become a stronger, more visible University City, helping the region grow educationally and economically.