Opportunity to see what the future of Lochside could look like

Since 2022, Wheatley Homes South and Dumfries and Galloway Council have been engaging with the local community to develop a housing-led masterplan to regenerate the area.

Ahead of the planning application being submitted to the council, a public event is being held at the North West Community Campus next Thursday (14 March) to unveil the plans.

Since the regeneration proposals were first announced, tenants, residents and local businesses have been offered the change to shape the future of the area through a range of methods, including online, face-to-face, paper survey and email.

In their feedback, residents highlighted a strong sense of community is important to them, with many saying they welcome investment and regeneration in their area.

Alan Glasgow, Managing Director of Wheatley Homes South, said: “The views of tenants and residents is key to this process, and we are very grateful that so many have shared their views on what they would like to see form part of the regeneration.

“Our work in Lochside forms part of Wheatley’s ambitious plans for Dumfries and Galloway over the coming years, where we will regenerate areas, build new affordable homes and create communities that meet the needs of people from across the region.

“To date, the feedback on the Lochside proposals has been overwhelmingly positive with the local community keen to see work start on the regeneration to create a thriving, healthy and sustainable neighbourhood for people to live, learn and work.

“We hope to see as many people as possible attend the event to meet and speak with Wheatley Homes South and council staff and see the proposals for the area.”

Councillor Ian Carruthers, Chair of Dumfries and Galloway Council’s Economy and Resources Committee, said: “We are delighted to share the final regeneration proposals for Lochside and present them to the residents and businesses of the area at the public event.

“The community has played an essential role in shaping this housing-led masterplan, and their input has been invaluable. The final proposals have been developed to align with the requirements and wishes of the community and will create a thriving and sustainable neighbourhood for people to live, work, and learn.

“We urge Lochside residents to attend the public event and have their say.”

Councillor David Inglis, Vice Chair of Dumfries and Galloway Council’s Economy and Resources Committee, said: “We are pleased to welcome the positive engagement received on the proposed regeneration plans and appreciate the valuable insights provided by the communities of Lochside and surrounding areas.

“Our council remains committed to collaborating with the residents of Lochside to cultivate a robust and community-led investment in the area.

“We encourage everyone to attend the public consultation event and express their thoughts on shaping the future of Lochside.”

Lochside residents can have their say by visiting the following link: https://ow.ly/tnqX50QG4ti

The final public consultation event is being held at the North West Community Campus in Lochside on Thursday 14 March between 4.30pm and 8pm.