Green light given for massive £130 million transformation of Lochside

The £130 million regeneration is being delivered in partnership with the local community, the council, and Wheatley Homes, the region’s largest social landlord, part of Wheatley Group.

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.

Alex Lamb, Managing Director of Wheatley Homes South, said: “This decision paves the way for a bright new future for Lochside.

“The plans will see £130 million invested in transforming the area and focusing on the key issues people living in the region want improved.

“The views of tenants, residents and local groups have been absolutely key to this whole process, and we are very grateful that so many had shared their ideas on the future of Lochside since 2022.

“Working with Dumfries and Galloway Council and the Scottish Government, we hope to start work on delivering a bright new future for Lochside in 2027.”

Councillor Ian Blake, Chair of the council’s Economy and Infrastructure Committee, welcomed the decision: "The approval of the Lochside Masterplan is a significant step forward for the community and for Dumfries and Galloway as a whole.

“It reflects our commitment to place-based regeneration and inclusive growth. Most importantly, it’s a plan shaped by local people and it puts their priorities at the heart of development.

Councillor Jackie McCamon, Vice Chair of the committee added: “Agreeing the Lochside Masterplan is a major milestone towards ensuring we are able to improve the lives of local residents. We have heard throughout the consultation of the need for more family homes, and properties that meet the needs of older residents.

“It is great to see this feedback genuinely shaping our work, and we will continue to engage with residents as their input is vital to ensuring we can deliver their aspirations"

Lochside resident Janice Sewell said: "This plan represents hope and progress for Lochside. As someone who lives here, I’ve seen the difference it makes when communities are genuinely listened to. It’s about giving people a say in their future and creating a better place for the next generation."

Residents in Lochside are being encouraged to help shape the next stage of the regeneration by joining a refreshed residents’ group that will meet quarterly and will act as a link between Wheatley and the council and the community.

Alex Lamb added: “By being part of this group, residents would be playing an active role representing the community, shaping the plans and helping deliver on the ambitious regeneration plans for Lochside.”

Lochside is one of three community-led regenerations taking place in Wheatley Homes communities, with the others being in Summerhill and in Newington, Annan.

They form part of regeneration and new-build plans by Dumfries and Galloway’s largest social landlord which will see hundreds of new and energy-efficient homes delivered by 2026.

Anyone interested in finding out more about the regeneration or joining the residents group, should visit: https://www.wheatleyhomes-south.com/my-home/my-community/lochside-regeneration