The development marks the start of a long-term regeneration programme being delivered in partnership by Wheatley Group, Dumfries and Galloway Council, Scottish Government, and the local community.

The development will deliver 52 new affordable homes and is the first phase of the £130 million transformation for Lochside.

Since 2022, more than 1500 Wheatley tenants, residents and local businesses have had their say on the regeneration and helped shape the future vision for Lochside by sharing their views.

The wider regeneration programme will see existing Wheatley homes upgraded, hundreds of new energy-efficient homes built in the area, connectivity and active travel routes improved, and new green spaces created across Lochside.

Lindsay Lauder, director of development and regeneration at Wheatley, said: “This approval marks the start of an exciting new chapter for Lochside and is the first step in a transformational regeneration programme that will create new homes, improve the local area, and help build a stronger future for the community.

“The approval of the new-build site at Findlater Court and Syme Road not only paves the way for 52 new affordable homes, but it kick-starts wider plans that will see around £130m invested in Lochside over the coming years.

“The vision for Lochside has been shaped by tenants, residents and local groups, whose views have been at the heart of the regeneration proposals from the very beginning.

“We are grateful to everyone who has helped shape these plans and look forward to continuing our work with Dumfries and Galloway Council, Scottish Government and the local community to bring that vision to life.”

Councillor Andy Ferguson, chair of Economy and Infrastructure at Dumfries and Galloway Council, said: “This decision marks the start of an exciting chapter for Lochside, the first step in a regeneration programme that has been shaped by the views of people living in the area.

“We are committed to supporting the delivery of affordable housing that create places where communities can thrive. The focus on Lochside will improve the quality of housing, enhance the local environment and create opportunities for future generations.

“Personally, I am also delighted to see that specialist homes will be built for people with health needs bringing them closer to their family and friends. I would like to thank everyone who has contributed so far and look forward to seeing the positive impact this regeneration programme will have across the community.”

Lochside is one of three community-led regenerations taking place in Wheatley Homes communities, with the others being in Summerhill and in Newington, Annan.

They form part of regeneration and new-build plans by Dumfries and Galloway’s largest social landlord which will see hundreds of new and energy-efficient homes delivered by 2026.