The plan will be published locally in partnership with NHS Dumfries and Galloway and will reflect the outcomes set out in the Scottish Government’s draft National Good Food Nation Plan.
The council’s commitment to the plan follows the anticipated enactment of Section 10 of the Act, which will trigger a twelve-month period for local authorities to produce their regional plans. There is also a requirement for the development of an associated Action Plan which must, once published, be reviewed by our council every two years. It must also be fully updated every five years.
Dumfries and Galloway has a strong connection to the food and drink sector, with one of the highest proportions of employment in the industry across Scotland. However, the region also faces challenges such as food insecurity and rising demand for food bank services. The council has already begun work to establish a baseline dataset and identify local priorities.
The development of the Regional Good Food Nation Plan will be shaped by comprehensive stakeholder engagement. This includes public engagement, collaboration with businesses and organisations, and alignment with existing strategic partnerships addressing poverty, nutrition, food growing and sustainability. The views of residents and those with lived experience of food-related issues will be reflected in the plan.
Councillor Andy Ferguson, Chair of the Economy and Infrastructure Committee, said:
“Our council recognises the importance of food to the health, wellbeing and prosperity of our communities. The development of a Regional Good Food Nation Plan is an opportunity to build a fairer, more sustainable food system for Dumfries and Galloway, and we are committed to working with our partners and residents to make that vision a reality.”
Councillor Tony Berretti, Vice-Chair of the committee, added:
“This is a significant step forward in addressing food-related challenges across our region. By engaging with communities and stakeholders, we will ensure that the Regional Good Food Nation Plan reflects local priorities and delivers meaningful outcomes for the people of Dumfries and Galloway.”
A progress report will be brought to committee in summer 2026, six months prior to the anticipated publication of the Regional Good Food Nation Plan in 2027.
The committee report can be read at: Agenda for Economy and Infrastructure Committee on Tuesday, 4th November, 2025, 10.30 am | Dumfries and Galloway Council