Carlisle city centre closure after fresh hotel safety fears

Victoria Viaduct in Carlisle is closed as of today following a council decision to carry out further demolition to the derelict Central Plaza Hotel. Motorists and pedestrians are advised to take alternative routes.

In a statement the Carlisle City Council said:

“Following further deterioration to the Central Plaza building a decision has been made to undertake further demolition of the unsafe structure.

“A recent inspection of the building by Building Control and the council’s consulting structural engineer and principal designer found the building to be at risk and action is needed to make the building safe.

“In the interest of public safety, Victoria Viaduct from its junction with James Street to its junction with Blackfriars Street is closed to both vehicles and pedestrians. Bush Brow is also closed and there is a partial closure of West Walls from its junction with Victoria Viaduct to Sallyport steps.

“The closures have been put in place by Cumbria County Council’s highways team following advice received from the City Council’s Building Control team and the council’s consulting structural engineer and principal designer.

• Condition of Central Plaza Hotel remains 'critically dangerous'

• More brickwork to be removed from Central Plaza Hotel

Because the building has no owner (the building is currently in escheat but rests with the Crown Estate), it is the Council's responsibility for the safety of the structure.

Motorists and pedestrians are advised to find an alternative route. Until further assessments are made, it's unclear how long the viaduct will be closed. However, the Council estimates it will be months rather than weeks.