Topic Projects, Infrastructure
Date 12 Jun 2026
Galliford Try has officially opened the Carlisle Southern Link Road (CSLR), marking the completion of one of North West’s most significant infrastructure projects.
Delivered on behalf of Cumberland Council, the new route provides approximately 8km of new highway infrastructure designed to improve connectivity across Carlisle, support economic growth and enhance journeys for residents, businesses and visitors.
The project has involved the delivery of major structures, including four new roundabouts and three major road bridges, as well as extensive earthworks, drainage and environmental measures, and a strong focus on creating long-term social value throughout construction.
Over the course of delivery, the team has worked closely with local communities and partners to leave a lasting positive impact through education, skills and employment initiatives, volunteering activity and community investment delivered through the CSLR Trust. Over 1,000 apprenticeship weeks were delivered, as well as over 1,300 hours of engagements with local schools.
The opening marks the culmination of extensive collaboration between Galliford Try, supply chain partners and Cumberland Council.
Glennan Blackmore, Managing Director of Galliford Try Infrastructure, said: “The opening of Carlisle Southern Link Road is a proud moment for us at Galliford Try and a reflection of the collaboration, expertise and commitment shown by everyone involved. The project will leave a lasting impact for local communities and demonstrates the value great infrastructure can create.”
Ross Glendinning, Operations Director, Galliford Try Infrastructure, said: “CSLR has been a hugely important project for our business and it has been fantastic to see the dedication, teamwork and passion shown throughout delivery. I’m incredibly proud of what the team has achieved and the positive legacy this scheme will leave for Carlisle and the surrounding area.”
Phil Robinson, Project Director, Galliford Try Infrastructure, said: “CSLR has been an incredibly rewarding project to be part of and reaching this milestone is a real credit to everyone who has contributed along the way. Delivering a scheme of this scale has brought challenges, but the commitment, resilience and teamwork shown throughout has been outstanding.
“I’m extremely proud of what the team and our supply chain partners have achieved together and of the positive difference this project will make for local communities for years to come.”
Cumberland Councillor Denise Rollo, Executive Member for Sustainable, Resilient and Connected Places, commented: “The opening of the Carlisle Southern Link Road is a fantastic milestone and a truly historic moment for Cumberland.
“This is one of the most significant infrastructure projects we’ve delivered, and it will make a lasting difference to how people travel, connect and do business across the area.
“It’s incredible to see the road now open, easing congestion, improving journey times and supporting future growth, including the development of St Cuthbert’s Garden Village.
“I’d like to thank residents, businesses and road users for their patience over the past few years while this work has been carried out, as well as everyone involved in delivering the scheme. This is something Cumberland can be incredibly proud of, and it will benefit our communities for generations to come.”