Demolition begins on crumbling Carlisle hotel
Demolition work begins today on the Central Plaza Hotel in Carlisle.
In a statement Carlisle City Council said: “Our contractors have now taken control of the Central Plaza site. Prior to the demolition of the main building, the contractors will undertake enabling works that will ensure that adjacent and adjoining buildings are protected."
A platform will be built at the back of the building, where the specialist long reach demolition vehicle will be placed.
The council also stated: "The design team has explored all options to safely demolish the building unfortunately due to the loading restrictions on Victoria Viaduct, the demolition vehicle will need to access the site from West Walls and demolition will be undertaken from the rear of the building towards the front. This will contain the debris field.
“When safe to do so, we will attempt to salvage the ornate carvings from the side of the building. These will then be in the ownership of Carlisle City Council."
The large listed building has been closed to the public since 2004 and has since fallen into disrepair. It has no owner, meaning the council is responsible for its safety.
Victoria Viaduct will remain closed until the work is complete, which is expected to take between three and four months. There are no plans for a pause in the works to help with Christmas trading.
The council have promised 'hardship funds' for affected businesses.