Dumfries and Galloway councillors to hear of progress on major capital projects

Within the report, several significant projects are highlighted that are transforming communities across the region. These initiatives reflect our commitment to improving infrastructure, education and wellbeing for residents.

The updates include progress on the school estate, Dumfries Zero Waste Park, multi-modal transport hubs and Annan and District Day Centre.

A major redevelopment is underway at Dumfries Academy and Loreburn Primary School. Non-intrusive surveys were completed over the Easter holidays, followed by detailed investigations during the summer. These efforts are helping shape the Stage 1 Outline Business Case, which will be reviewed by council officers in September. The project aims to modernise facilities and enhance learning environments for pupils and staff.

Construction of the new Dumfries High School is progressing ahead of schedule. Managed by Morgan Sindall through the Hub South West procurement route, the project is currently 60% complete. The new building is set to be handed over in April 2026. The 3G pitch, already in use since January, is a testament to the project’s momentum. Once the school relocates, demolition of the old buildings and landscaping will follow. The project remains on budget at £53.246 million.

Work at the Dumfries Zero Waste Park began in April 2025 and is on track for completion by September 2026. Groundworks, drainage infrastructure, and car park formation are well underway. The strip-out of equipment in the MBT building has also commenced. This project is a cornerstone of the council’s commitment to environmental sustainability and modern waste management.

The council is developing nine multi-modal transport hubs across the region, supported by funding from the UK Government’s Levelling Up Fund. These hubs are designed to make sustainable and active travel more accessible by connecting everyday journeys, improving links between towns, and reducing car trips. The initiative aims to increase bus, walking, and cycling journeys while boosting visitor numbers.

Galliford Try has been appointed to provide phase 1 pre-construction support, and the council’s in-house design teams have submitted statutory planning applications. Detailed design work is now underway, with site starts expected in Q3. Discussions are ongoing with potential delivery partners to bring transport hub infrastructure to community sites in Dalbeattie and Whithorn.

Plans for a new Adult Day Centre in Annan are progressing through the RIBA design stages. The redevelopment of the former library site will deliver a high-quality facility aligned with Scotland’s Wellbeing Economy goals. The council has committed funding to support the next phase of technical design, with hopes of securing Regeneration Capital Grant Funding from the Scottish Government.

“These projects represent a significant investment in the future of our region,” said Andy Ferguson, chair of the Economy and Infrastructure Committee. “The redevelopment of Dumfries Academy and Loreburn Primary is a shining example of how we’re putting education and community wellbeing at the heart of our capital programme.”

Tony Berretti, vice chair of the Committee, added: “We’re seeing real momentum across the board – from flood protection schemes to new transport infrastructure. These projects are not only improving lives today but laying the groundwork for a more resilient and inclusive future.”