The events auditorium at The Sands Centre, Carlisle welcomed back audiences this week.
Work to replace the roof and improve the auditorium space at The Sands Centre, Carlisle has now been completed - with the full events programme now underway.
The complex repair work has been completed with 200 tonnes of the old RAAC roof panels removed and a new roof installed. The redesigned temporary roof structure, which has provided upgraded protection during the roof replacement, has been removed and scaffolding is being dismantled.
The improved auditorium space includes a full replacement of the customer seating, auditorium and theatre lighting renewal and a full refurbishment to the backstage facilities. Further improvements to the auditorium floor will be carried out in the summer and will not impact on the events programme.
An exciting programme of events is already taking shape. From live performances and family shows to sporting fixtures and community activities, there will be plenty to look forward to in the months ahead.
We spoke to Cllr Mark Fryer, Leader of Cumberland Council about the work behind the scenes to complete the roof replacement and wider improvements, and what it means for the future of the venue and the events programme in Carlisle. Venue Manager Daniel Charlton also gives a behind-the-scenes look at the upgraded space, showcasing the improvements visitors can now experience.
An iconic Carlisle building is set to come back to life.
Bitts Park Lodge, which has stood empty since being badly damaged by flooding in 2015, is now on track to reopen thanks to a unique partnership between Cumberland Council, Story Contracting, Story Homes, Carlisle College and Habitat for Humanity Great Britain.
Initial repair works are already being prepared, with Story Homes and Story Contracting carrying out essential surveys and improvements at no cost to the council, helping to return the building to a safe, dry and secure condition.
As plans develop, the Lodge could become a new café and community hub, creating a welcoming space for residents and visitors. The project will also give Carlisle College students the chance to gain hands-on construction experience on a live site, reducing waste and delivering lasting benefits for the local community.
It’s hoped this approach could pave the way for bringing other unused buildings back into use across Cumberland.
Plans for Cumberland Sports Village have recently been given the go-ahead, marking another key milestone for the project in Workington.
Following confirmation of an additional £4.5 million from the Cumbria Combined Authority, the scheme will now be expanded to include the replacement of all terraces and increase the stadium’s capacity to 5,000. Designed as a high-quality, inclusive and accessible venue for football and rugby clubs, the development will also provide new facilities for the wider community.
Backed by the UK Government Town Deal, Cumberland Council and the Football Foundation, the project continues to gather momentum.
We spoke to Mark Fryer, Leader of Cumberland Council as he shares the latest update on Cumberland Sports Village and what planning approval means for the project in Workington.
If you are a parent or carer, you can access free online courses through One Plus One to help you build stronger relationships and support your family life.
The courses are short, easy to follow and designed to fit around busy schedules. You can dip in and out when it suits you.
They offer simple, practical ideas to help you:
- build stronger relationships
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communicate more easily
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handle everyday parenting challenges
Fully funded summer activities are available for eligible children through Holiday Activity and Food (HAF) programme. Book now to avoid disappointment.
This programme is fully funded by the Department for Education.
It’s the Lakesman triathlon this weekend – and event we are a partner for.
Designed to appeal to both the experienced or novice endurance athlete the race is based in Keswick with a 2.1 mile swim followed by a 56 mile bike route through the Western Lake District, before a 13.1 mile run in the town.
Best of luck to all the competitors.
Temporary restrictions in Keswick car park
Due to The Lakesman triathlon taking place this weekend, there'll be some temporary parking restrictions in Lakeside car park (next to the Theatre by the Lake).
From today (Friday 19) June until Monday 22 June (until around 12pm) the full site will be closed off. The site will be reopened gradually in sections for public use.
The event team is expected to be fully off the site by 12pm on Tuesday 23 June.
Cumberland is preparing to welcome one of the world’s most iconic sporting events, as the Tour de France Grand Départ comes to the county in 2027. This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to showcase our landscapes, communities and local pride to a global audience, while bringing residents and visitors together in the run-up to the race.
We've created a newsletter where you’ll find the latest updates on how plans are taking shape, the opportunities to get involved, and how we’re working with partners to make sure this is an event the whole of Cumberland can be part of and proud of.
Hundreds of children and young people from across Cumberland are getting ready to come together for the 2026 Cumbria School Games, a countywide celebration of physical activity, movement, and teamwork.
Organised by Active Cumbria in partnership with School Games Organisers, schools and activity providers the event takes place in Carlisle on Thursday 25 June. The Cumbria School Games isn’t about winning - it’s about getting involved, having fun, and enjoying the benefits of being active with others. Whether trying something new or building confidence, the day supports young people’s physical, mental and emotional wellbeing in a positive, inclusive, uplifting environment.
Carlisle United and Stockport County star Owen Moxon is backing the National Year of Reading - sharing his favourite book, the Steven Gerrard autobiography.
Owen’s proof that there’s a book for every interest, whether you love football, sport or something completely different.
Libraries are FREE with unlimited reading - pop in, sign up and start your reading journey today!
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Join Raise: Cumbria Community Forest for practical days working outdoors and caring for woodlands.
Seasonal activities include tree-planting, surveying and maintaining woodland. Join as many or as few sessions as you can. Dates vary across weekdays, weekends and locations across Cumbria.
Our latest Armed Forces newsletter brings together key information and updates for the Armed Forces community across Cumberland, including details about Armed Forces Day and other upcoming events taking place locally.
It also highlights the range of support available for serving personnel, veterans and their families, alongside local hubs, clubs and opportunities to connect with others.
Better roads on the way for Thurstonfield
We are set to carry out essential carriageway resurfacing works on the B5307 at Thurstonfield, helping to deliver smoother, safer journeys for all road users.
The works will begin on Monday 22 June 2026 and are expected to last for five working days, subject to weather and site conditions.
Footway improvement works planned for Etterby Street, Carlisle
We will be carrying out essential footway improvement works on Etterby Street in Carlisle.
The works are scheduled to begin on Monday 22 June 2026, lasting for approximately 25 working days, subject to weather conditions and site requirements.
We’ve been made aware of scam messages about parking fines circulating locally.
These messages have not been sent by Cumberland Council and are not legitimate.
Payments should only be made using a valid Penalty Charge Notice, which includes payment details on the reverse.
Citizens Advice Consumer Service: 0808 223 1133
Scams Action: 0808 250 5050
Great news - a Chair has now been appointed to the Raffles and Morton Neighbourhood Board.
Local business owner Joshua Jenkins will lead the board in directing £20m of investment from the government's Pride in Place programme.
Could you help? Find out more about Pride in Place and how you can get involved in Raffles and Morton.
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Join us in Workington to chat to your elected council members.
If you live in the Workington Together area, your Community Panel is ready for conversation and a cuppa on Tuesday, 23 June.
Members will be in the Council Chamber at Allerdale House from 5.30pm until 6pm, prior to the formal quarterly panel meeting at 6pm. Say hello and share your questions or concerns.
The Workington Together Community Panel area includes the wards of Mossbay, Moorclose, Harrington, Seaton, St John’s and Great Clifton, and St Michael’s
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