SHAPING CARLISLE’S FUTURE

What’s our purpose?

The Great Border City is a broad-based consortium that unites local businesses, community organisations, and civic stakeholders under a shared commitment to making Carlisle the premier place to visit, work, and live. By leveraging Carlisle’s unique position as a historic border city, the consortium seeks to celebrate the area’s rich cultural heritage while driving forward-looking economic growth.

Through collaboration and partnership, we aim to enhance the city’s appeal for residents, attract new businesses, and welcome visitors from across the region and beyond.

FORGING CARLISLE’S PATH

Our Mission

Our overarching mission is to strengthen Carlisle’s economy and community spirit through a variety of initiatives. These include promoting local enterprises, creating inclusive events and festivals that highlight the city’s history, and developing strategies to draw in fresh talent and investment.

By working hand in hand with local authorities, educational institutions, and other regional partners, we believe Carlisle can become an even more dynamic place that balances progress with respect for its past.

Next Steps

A vital step in this process involves reaching out to the business sector—particularly business rate payers—to gather insights and ideas. We value your perspective on what Carlisle needs to thrive, and we recognise the importance of partnering with those who help fuel the local economy.
Whether your focus is retail, hospitality, manufacturing, or any other industry, your voice will shape the consortium’s priorities and help ensure that every decision we make reflects the broader needs of our community.

By contributing your opinions and support, you join a collective effort to build upon Carlisle’s strengths, identify areas for improvement, and create new opportunities for everyone who calls this city home.
Together, we can develop long-term strategies that promote sustainable growth, celebrate our cultural and historical identity, and foster an environment where businesses flourish, families feel at home, and visitors can’t wait to return.
This is an exciting and pivotal opportunity to invest in building a better future for Carlisle.