Dumfries and Galloway builder helped on road to net zero

The Dumfries and Galloway builder specialises in managing every stage of the build process, from new builds to extensions and renovations and they aim to do this in a sustainable way.

Founded in Dalbeattie in 2023, the business has quickly built a reputation across Dumfries and Galloway for quality work, fair pricing, and strong attention to detail. The team also have sound knowledge of local planning regulations, building codes, and architectural styles.

Business Gateway has been on hand to support South West Trades with general business advice and strategic support in progressing a net zero strategy, including signposting to a Climate Resilience Grant, which has supported the company to install solar lighting in its yard.

The company previously used a petrol generator in its yard which was expensive to run, and noisy, not only for employees but for nearby premises. It required constant topping up and created pollution within the immediate working environment.

With support from Business Gateway, the business secured £3,000 of funding from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, which contributed to installing renewable lighting for its yard.

Local Business Gateway advisers, Amanda Beattie and Fiona Smyth, worked closely with Paul Widdowson, director of South West Trades, guiding him through the startup phase and supporting him with the grant application to help advance the company’s carbon reduction goals.

Paul Widdowson, director of South West Trades, said: “The Business Gateway team has been wonderful in supporting us with our ambitions to reach net zero. The team’s expert guidance and advice have proven invaluable in establishing our business plan and signposting us to funding opportunities that have enabled the business to reduce its carbon footprint.

“I’m proud that as a small business we are setting a standard for sustainability and thinking about how we can minimise our impact on the environment.”

Councillor Gail Macgregor, chair of the Business Gateway Board, said: “Supporting businesses like South West Trades to embed sustainability into their operations is a strategic priority for Business Gateway. By providing tailored advice and signposting to appropriate funding, we helped translate ambition around reducing carbon emissions into practical, investable action.

“Steps such as switching to renewable energy demonstrate how businesses can cut emissions, reduce costs and improve working environments, while showing that progress towards net zero is both achievable and beneficial.”