April 2026
We have proudly supported Belle Vue Primary School in creating an inspiring new library space, giving a treasured piece of local heritage a new lease of life for future generations.
Working in partnership with Tullie, Carlisle’s renowned museum and gallery, we have helped relocate and repurpose the replica railway carriages that once formed part of the much-loved Border Galleries. The carriages, which have held a special place in the memories of many local residents since 1990, have now been carefully installed at the heart of Belle Vue Primary School’s library.
After more than 30 years at Tullie, the carriages have now moved on to make way for a transformation to display 100,000 objects from the museum’s 1 million-strong collection. This transformation is part of Project Tullie, the museum’s ambitious development programme. This development is made possible with support from The National Lottery Heritage Fund.
Thanks to the expertise of our joinery team, the carriages have been transformed into unique and engaging reading spaces where pupils can immerse themselves in books, read with friends, and develop a lifelong love of reading.
The project comes at a particularly fitting time, with 2026 marking the National Year of Reading, further underlining the importance of creating inspiring environments that encourage literacy and imagination among young people.
To celebrate the completion of the project, a special event was held at the school with pupils from each year group. Children had the opportunity to read aloud to an audience including Hayley Blair, Story Homes’ Operations Director, and Richard Cannon, Head of Production. They were also joined by our mascot, Builder Bear. Representatives from Tullie were also present to officially wave off the much-loved piece of set dressing for the next step of its journey. Pupils were also presented with goodie bags to mark the occasion.
Hayley Blair, Operations Director at Story Homes, said:
“As a Carlisle-headquartered business we are incredibly proud to have supported Belle Vue Primary School in bringing this fantastic project to life. The train carriages are a cherished part of Carlisle’s history, and it’s wonderful to see them repurposed in such a meaningful way. Creating a space where children feel excited to read and learn is something we’re passionate about, and we hope this will inspire generations of pupils to come.”
Andrew Cairns, Headteacher at Belle Vue Primary School, added:
“The carriages are an important part of our city’s history and giving them a new home in our library is incredibly special – especially during the National Year of Reading. They will provide a unique and inspiring space for children to enjoy for years to come.
“Through Tullie’s ‘Adopt a School’ initiative, we’ve been proud to be the first participating school, with pupils already working on exciting projects alongside their team. This installation would not have been possible without the support, expertise and commitment of Story Homes, who helped bring this vision to life. We are extremely grateful to both Tullie and Story Homes for their valued support.”
Anna Smalley, Head of Collections and Engagement at Tullie, said:
“We know that the replica railway carriages are very dear to many people, so we are incredibly pleased that they’ll be getting a new lease of life. The fact that this new life will be at Belle Vue – one of our most valued partners – and as a space dedicated to reading is the best we could have hoped for.”
The initiative demonstrates our dedication to making a positive difference in local communities and ensuring valued heritage can be enjoyed by future generations.
Photography courtesy of Stuart Walker.
