Lochside Masterplan Launch Celebrated by Community and Partners

The official launch of the £130 million Lochside Masterplan was met with strong community support as over 100 residents gathered at the YMCA centre in Lochside Road to hear from local leaders and partners about the transformational regeneration plans.

my and Infrastructure Committee; Alex Lamb, Managing Director of Wheatley
Councillor Andy Ferguson, Angela Gilmour, Dawn Roberts and Alex Lamb

The event, held on 2 July, featured presentations from Councillor Andy Ferguson, Chair of Dumfries and Galloway Council’s Economy and Infrastructure Committee; Alex Lamb, Managing Director of Wheatley Homes South; Angela Gilmour, Managing Director of LIFT D+G CIC (Local Delivery Group member); and Dawn Roberts, Chief Executive of Dumfries and Galloway Council.

The £130 million regeneration is being delivered in partnership with the local community, the council, and Wheatley Homes South.

Over 1300 tenants, residents and local businesses have so far helped shape the community-led regeneration by sharing their views on the future of the area.

The multi-million-pound transformation will see existing Wheatley homes upgraded, hundreds of new energy-efficient homes built, connectivity and active travel routes improved, and new green space in Lochside.

Councillor Andy Ferguson said:

“This is a huge step forward in the regeneration of Lochside. The masterplan reflects what residents have told us they want for their neighbourhood – better homes, greener spaces and safer routes.  It’s the result of real collaboration between the community, our council and Wheatley Homes South. I’m proud that the engagement approach we have put in place will be built on to enable even more local people to shape this transformation.” 

Alex Lamb, Managing Director of Wheatley Homes South, said:

“It was great to see so many people attend the launch event and to hear the enthusiasm for the plans.

“Throughout the entire process, the Lochside community has been at the heart of the regeneration, sharing their views and helping design a future for the area that better meets their needs.

“We’re looking forward to continuing our work with the residents, community organisations and local elected members to ensure they stay at the heart of delivering the masterplan.”

The event also served as a call for residents to continue their involvement by joining a refreshed residents’ group that will meet regularly and help shape the next stage of the regeneration.

Alex added:

“By being part of this group, residents will play a role representing the community, shaping the plans and helping deliver on the ambitious regeneration plans for Lochside.”