Dumfries Summer Road Improvement Work – Your Questions Answered

A major programme of road maintenance and improvement works is taking place across Dumfries this summer. We know people will have questions about what’s happening, why it is needed and what it means for getting around the town.

What works are taking place this summer?

A coordinated programme of carriageway resurfacing, surface dressing and micro-surfacing works is being carried out across Dumfries.

This includes:

• Major routes such as Edinburgh Road (A701), Lockerbie Road (A709), Annan Road and New Abbey Road
• Town centre streets including Bankend Road and St Michael’s Street
• Residential streets and surrounding areas such as Greystone Crescent and Locharbriggs

These works form part of a wider investment to improve roads across Dumfries and Galloway.

The detail of the planned roadworks and scheduled dates are:

When will the works take place?

The programme will run from late June through to early September 2026, with works phased across this period.

Phasing helps reduce disruption and maintain traffic flow as far as possible while works are underway. Where possible, works are also scheduled during the school summer holiday period to reduce the impact on peak-time travel.

Why are these works needed?

The council is responsible for maintaining over 4,000 kilometres of roads, making it one of its most important assets.

This programme helps to:

• Keep roads safe and reliable
• Extend the lifespan of key routes
• Support travel for residents, businesses and visitors

Works are prioritised to ensure investment is targeted where it will have the greatest impact.

Will there be disruption?

Yes. Due to the scale of the programme, some disruption is unavoidable.

This may include:

• Temporary road closures and diversions
• Changes to traffic routes
• Increased congestion and longer journey times
• Changes to bus routes and timetables

Combined with other activity across the town, including the ongoing Annan Road closure and other major projects, this may place additional pressure on alternative routes, particularly at peak times.

Why are works happening at the same time?

Work is planned and phased where possible to minimise overlapping disruption. However, given:

• the scale of activity
• existing constraints on the road network
• and the need to make best use of summer conditions

…it is not possible to avoid all overlap.

What is being done to reduce disruption?

The council is working to:

• Phase works across the summer period
• Coordinate traffic management across sites
• Minimise overlapping works where possible

Every effort will be made to reduce inconvenience while essential improvements are carried out.

How long will it take to improve all roads?

This programme represents a significant step forward, supported by increased investment.

However, due to the size of the network, it will take time to address all issues. Work will continue as part of a longer-term approach to improving road condition across the region.

Thank you for your patience

We recognise this work may cause short-term disruption. These improvements are essential to maintain a safe, reliable road network for everyone who lives, works and travels in Dumfries.