Overview

• The former Central Plaza site in Carlisle, vacant since 2011 and demolished in 2020, will be transformed into a Premier Inn hotel by Whitbread PLC.
• Cumberland Council partnered with property consultant CBRE to identify redevelopment proposals and selected Whitbread for its strong regeneration plan.
• The council utilized the UK Government Future High Streets Fund for enabling works, including structural repairs to adjacent properties, to prepare the site.
• Whitbread aims to submit a planning application in summer 2025, with the goal of opening the 104-room hotel by late 2028, pending approval.
• The project is part of a broader city-centre regeneration effort, including upgrades to the Citadel Railway Station and University of Cumbria developments, expected to boost the local economy and create jobs.