Plans for a replacement Kirkcudbright Bridge will move to the next stage if councillors approve £6.19 million of funding at a meeting of Full Council on Thursday 24 September.
The funding would pay for the detailed work needed before councillors decide whether construction should go ahead.
This includes developing the design, undertaking site investigations, progressing statutory approvals, completing pre-construction procurement and engagement activities, and producing a final business case – to assess whether the project is affordable, deliverable and represents value for money.
Kirkcudbright Bridge carries the A755 across the River Dee and provides an important connection between Kirkcudbright, the Merse and the wider Stewartry area. The existing bridge opened in 1926 and has deteriorated significantly over time.
The bridge was closed by the council on safety grounds in March 2025. It later reopened to cars, light vans and motorcycles under single-lane traffic management and a 3-tonne weight restriction.
Larger vehicles continue to use alternative routes, affecting residents, businesses, visitors and the delivery of council services.
The report says the existing bridge, with its current restrictions, is not a viable long-term main crossing for the A755. It recommends progressing plans for a replacement bridge that would restore unrestricted access and include provision for walking and cycling.
An immediately upstream location has been identified as the recommended option at this stage. The location and design would be developed further during the next phase of work.
Two public engagement events were held in June 2026 and more than 300 people responded to a community survey.
Feedback highlighted the importance of a safe and accessible bridge, unrestricted access, long-term reliability and minimising disruption during construction. Sixty per cent of respondents preferred the upstream location.
The current cost plan estimates that the overall project is most likely to cost £43.7 million.
This is not a final construction cost or the amount councillors are being asked to approve on 24 September. The next phase would provide firmer cost information before councillors consider whether construction should go ahead.
The £6.19 million would come from an existing £36.8 million allowance in the council’s Capital Investment Strategy for unavoidable requirements. Funding for construction would be considered when the final design, costs and business case are presented to councillors.
The current programme indicates that the detailed design and final business case could be completed by January 2028.
Subject to further decisions, funding and approvals, construction could begin in January 2028 and the new bridge could open in April 2030. These dates may change as the project develops.
Convener of Dumfries and Galloway Council, Councillor Tracey Little, said:
“Kirkcudbright Bridge is an important connection for local communities, businesses and visitors. Councillors recognise the need to find a safe and sustainable long-term solution.
“This report represents a significant next step. If approved, the funding would allow the detailed design, investigations and other work needed to produce a clearer and more reliable proposal before councillors make any decision on construction.
“It has been encouraging to see the level of engagement from local residents, businesses and other stakeholders. More than 300 people responded to the survey, and their feedback will continue to inform the project as the plans develop.
“We will continue to keep the community informed and provide opportunities for people to be involved as this important work progresses.”
The report will be considered by Full Council on Thursday 24 September. The meeting papers are available on the council’s website at Agenda for Dumfries and Galloway Council on Thursday, 24th September, 2026, 10.45 am | Dumfries and Galloway Council.