Cubby Construction was appointed by Cumberland Council to undertake the design and construction of a replacement roof at The Sands Centre in Carlisle, delivering a complex programme of structural works and associated improvements to one of the region’s most established entertainment venues.

The project involved the removal of more than 200 tonnes of Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (RAAC) roof panels and the installation of a new roof system, alongside upgrades to the auditorium’s infrastructure and facilities.

Working in collaboration with Cumberland Council, venue operator GLL and specialist teams from within Cubby Group, the project combined structural refurbishment, extensive temporary works and coordinated construction activities to secure the long-term future of this important community facility.

A bespoke, fully enclosed temporary roof canopy was designed and installed to protect the auditorium during the replacement works. Delivered with the specialist expertise of Laidlaw Scaffolding, a fellow Cubby Group business, the temporary works incorporated more than 16 miles of scaffolding components.

The permanent roof replacement was delivered alongside a series of building improvements, including upgrades to the ventilation, lighting and fire alarm systems, together with improved access arrangements for future roof-level maintenance.

The wider auditorium refurbishment also included replacement seating, upgraded backstage facilities and improvements to the overall visitor experience.

“We could have just done the basic roof repairs, but we have done a lot more than that. It is now a safe and improved events venue – fit for the future.”

Cllr Mark Fryer
Leader of Cumberland Council

Following exceptional weather conditions associated with Storm Éowyn in January 2025, the temporary roof arrangement underwent comprehensive engineering reviews. The canopy was subsequently redesigned and strengthened, incorporating additional safety measures to improve its resilience against extreme wind conditions.

The revised programme brought together Cubby Construction, Laidlaw Scaffolding, specialist designers and project stakeholders to establish a coordinated approach to the remaining works.

The replacement roof and associated refurbishment works were successfully completed in June 2026, allowing The Sands Centre auditorium to reopen to audiences on 17 June, with The Drifters performing the first show following the refurbishment.