Open date set for archives centre

The new complex will house more than a million items

A new multi-million pound home for many of Cumbria's archived documents is on course to open in the autumn of 2010.

Work on the £8.2m complex at Petteril Bank began in January, with more than 11,000 tons of material removed from the site so far.

The centre will retain archives currently stored at Carlisle Castle, which has been used for 45 years.

The collection of more than a million items includes the Royal Charter of the City of Carlisle from 1316.

County archivist Anne Rowe said: "There has been a 250% increase in the numbers of people visiting or contacting us with inquiries.

Open space

"Interest in family history is one of the main factors, fuelled by recent television programmes on the subject, although it was happening even before that.

"We might have 30 researchers in the office at any time and we need quite a big open space."

Funding for the centre has come from the Lottery, grants and Cumbria County Council.

It has been estimated that, if laid end to end, the entire collection would stretch about four miles.

Gary Strong, Cumbria County Council's cabinet member with responsibility for culture, added: "The project is on schedule and on budget so far.

"There are plenty of hurdles to get over with a scheme this complex, but overall it is on target and we are looking forward to opening in the second half of 2010."