Main construction contract awarded for the Whitesands Project

Following a competitive two‑stage procurement process, Dumfries and Galloway Council has agreed the main works contract with McLaughlin & Harvey. The process included an early contractor involvement stage, which began in 2025 and helped shape the final construction approach.

The agreed construction contract has a value of £45.44 million, with an anticipated construction period of 43 months. Work will be carefully phased, and we’ll confirm proposed start dates and details of construction stages in the coming weeks once final preparations and required consents are completed.

How the project is funded

In December 2025, Full Council approved the Full Business Case for the Whitesands project, securing funding for the overall scheme, which has a total value of £68.6 million.

As part of that decision, councillors agreed to contribute £13.7 million, representing 20 per cent of the total project cost. This commitment provided the financial certainty needed to move from planning and design into the contract and construction phases.

What the project aims to deliver

The Whitesands project is designed to provide long‑term flood protection for Dumfries town centre from the River Nith, while also transforming the riverside area.

Alongside flood protection measures, the scheme will deliver public realm improvements along the river corridor from Greensands, through Whitesands, and onwards to Dock Park, creating a safer and more attractive space for residents, businesses and visitors.

What happens next

Lisa Hawkin, Executive Director of Economy and Infrastructure at Dumfries and Galloway Council, said:

“Agreeing the contract marks the completion of the procurement stage for the main works. The council will continue preparations for delivery, including ongoing communication and engagement with residents, businesses and stakeholders as further information becomes available.”

We’ll continue to use this blog to share updates as the project moves forward, including details on phasing, timescales and how works will be managed on site.