Upcoming site investigations at Whitesands: what to expect this spring

This helps us plan safely, avoid damage to underground services and make sure the technical design reflects what’s under the surface.

To do this, a short programme of site investigation works will begin between February and mid‑March 2026.

What the investigations will involve

The works will take place in two stages:

1. Utility mapping (Non‑Intrusive)

The first step uses ground‑penetrating radar to locate underground utilities. This technique scans below the surface without breaking ground and helps identify cables, pipes and other services.

2. Ground investigation works

Following that, teams will carry out further ground investigations to build on the surveys completed in 2024. These will use a combination of hand‑dug and mechanical methods, depending on location and access.
This work will include boreholes, trial pits and small‑scale test piling in very specific locations only.

Altogether, the full programme will take around four weeks. Dates may shift slightly depending on contractor availability or weather conditions.

Where is this happening?

A plan showing proposed boreholes, trial pits and test‑piling locations will be published soon on the Whitesands Project webpages.

These marked points are indicative – they may change slightly on the ground if access is restricted or if teams encounter unexpected site conditions.

Will this affect access?

In most cases, disruption will be minimal. However:

• some temporary traffic management may be required
• occasional footpath diversions may be put in place to maintain safety

We really appreciate your patience during this short period, and we’ll work hard to keep everything running as smoothly as possible.

What happens after the work?

Contractors will make good any disturbed land before leaving each site. If work takes place on grassed areas, you might see small raised mounds of earth where trial pits have been filled back in. This is intentional – once the soil settles naturally, it helps prevent depressions forming later.

Staying safe and avoiding scams

All contractors working on behalf of Dumfries and Galloway Council will:

• carry an official letter of authorisation
• show proper ID on request

If you’re ever unsure about someone calling at your door, please don’t let them in. Contact us directly and we’ll be happy to confirm whether the visit is genuine.

Telephone: 030 33 33 3000
Email: [email protected]