Karl Melville, Cumberland Council’s Assistant Director for Highways & Transport, said: “This is another important investment in Carlisle city centre and will deliver significant improvements for the thousands of people who use this busy transport hub each week.
“We recognise there will be some temporary disruption while the improvements are carried out, and we’d like to thank bus users, businesses and visitors for their patience.
“Importantly, Carlisle Market Hall and the surrounding businesses will remain open and ready to welcome customers throughout the works.
“We would encourage people to continue visiting the Market Hall and supporting local traders.”
Ahead of the works beginning, Cumberland Council will hold a drop-in session on 21 August, from 12:00 BST to 17:00 in the communal area of Carlisle Market Hall.
Residents, businesses and bus users can speak with members of the project team to find out more about the scheme, ask questions and discuss any requirements or concerns they may have.
Phase two of the work is scheduled to begin in early January 2027. While detailed arrangements are yet to be finalised, the council says it is likely that the site will again need to be temporarily closed to buses and pedestrians.
Phase two is expected to take approximately eight weeks to complete.
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