Alarming visuals (click to play above) depict the moment a temporary roof covering started to whip around amidst the fierce gusts on Friday (24 January).
The Sands Centre in Carlisle was shut down on both Friday and Saturday following Storm Eowyn’s destruction of the canopy, which was installed as part of the RAAC overhaul on the auditorium roof.
The aforementioned clip, recorded by Cumbrian Roofing Solutions, illustrated the catastrophic effect of the storm as the substantial canopy was obliterated by the intense weather conditions.
The venue’s roof is presently undergoing repairs due to the revelation of RAAC within the structure. The auditorium has been closed since September 2023, just hours prior to a weeklong presentation of Shrek the Musical commencing.
Footage courtesy of cumbrianroofingsolutionsltd.com | cumbrianroofingsolutionsltd.com
A representative from Cumberland Council stated: “In the wake of Storm Éowyn, The Sands Centre, Carlisle is closed today (Friday, 24 January). The severe winds have inflicted damage on the temporary canopy that was installed as part of the RAAC replacement on the Sands’ auditorium roof. The centre will also stay closed on Saturday, 25 January, while evaluations of the damage continue.
“As a safety measure, it has been decided to temporarily restrict pedestrian and cyclist access to Eden Bridge, Memorial Bridge (leading into Rickerby Park), and all alternative routes into Rickerby Park to minimize risks.
“Both The Sands Centre and Swifts car parks remain inaccessible. Please do not approach vehicles parked in these lots until notifications confirm it is safe to do so. Newmarket Road has been closed off, with a police cordon established. Updates will be provided as they become available.”
