Carlisle Library & Digital Hub – Cumberland Council
Project Scope
Carlisle Library has been fully refurbished and reconfigured to transform how the building works for the people who use it.
The scheme created new classrooms for the adult learning group, a dedicated children’s library and children’s area, “lab” spaces for history and creative activity, a local archive, staff workspaces, a new digital hub, and a purpose-built room to display the Jackson Collection of Carlisle artefacts.
The library’s mechanical and electrical services were fully replaced and modernised, alongside new internal structures, finishes and fittings, and a new sprinkler system.
“What stood out throughout this project was the way Krol Corlett worked alongside library staff, taking real care to understand their working environment and minimise disruption wherever possible,
Their partnership approach has created opportunities for local apprentices, young people and tradespeople, while helping to deliver a fantastic new-look library for Carlisle.
“It has been wonderful to see so many residents already making use of the new space, and the overwhelmingly positive response shows just how valued this investment is by the community.”
Work Completed
All existing mechanical and electrical systems were stripped out, including heating infrastructure, distribution equipment, cabling and controls.
The air handling units were retained and overhauled, with ductwork cleaned and modified to suit the new layout. New comfort cooling was installed in key areas, and hot and cold water services adapted to the revised layouts, including new sink provisions.
A complete new electrical installation was delivered, covering distribution boards, cabling, lighting, power and integrated fire, security and CCTV systems, with every system tested, balanced and commissioned before handover.
Krol Corlett’s work on Carlisle Library received national recognition. The project won at the prestigious Considerate Constructor Awards 2026 in Edinburgh.
“We were thrilled to work alongside the team at Cumberland Council in delivering the transformation of Carlisle Library, a key part of the wider £100 million investment in the city. At Krol Corlett Construction, we recognise the vital role projects like these play in strengthening local communities, and we are proud to bring over 50 years of expertise in delivering high-quality public sector developments.
“This project was delivered predominantly through the local supply chain, allowing us to create wider career and employment opportunities in the region. We thoroughly enjoyed collaborating closely with Cumberland Council to successfully deliver this new, modern learning and community hub, while also fostering long-term partnerships within the local community.”
Overcoming Challenges
A live library project within a busy city-centre shopping centre required a carefully considered, phased delivery strategy to maintain uninterrupted access for the local community.
The works were delivered in sequential stages, allowing key library services to remain operational while refurbishment progressed around them. This approach involved the creation of temporary and decant spaces, alongside meticulous planning to manage logistics, safety, and customer flow within a high-footfall retail environment.
Close collaboration with the client, stakeholders, and centre management ensured minimal disruption, with strict controls in place for noise, dust, and site segregation.
Despite the inherent complexities of working in a live environment, the phased approach enabled the continued provision of essential services while transforming the library into a modern, flexible space fit for future use.
Social Value
Community was at the heart of this project. We delivered it mainly through the local supply chain, with 90% of labour and subcontractor spend going into the local economy. The project created one full-time job, employed three apprentices throughout and gave a local college student work experience.
Beyond the build, we ran a full-day NEC contracts seminar for Cumberland Council. We also hosted an open men’s forum on the challenges facing our industry, including its high suicide rate.
On completion, we proudly sponsored the library’s official opening, celebrating with residents and stakeholders.