New community group will help shape transformation of Lochside

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

Now, the social landlord and the council are urging residents to join the Lochside Community Collective – a new residents’ group – and play a part in shaping the future of the area.

The multi-million-pound transformation will see existing Wheatley homes upgraded, hundreds of new energy-efficient homes built, and connectivity, active travel routes, and green space improved in Lochside.

The Lochside Community Collective will act as a link between Wheatley, the council, and the community. It will build on the work of the previous local delivery group, which helped shape the plans that were given the green light by Dumfries and Galloway Council in June of this year.

Anyone interested in finding out more about the new group is invited to attend a drop-in session with Wheatley and council staff at the YMCA Café on Wednesday, 17 September, between 5.30pm and 6.30pm.

Alex Lamb, Managing Director of Wheatley Homes South, said: “By being part of this new Lochside Community Collective, residents will be able to play their part in helping deliver the transformational regeneration plans for Lochside.

“We are grateful for the support of our partners at Dumfries and Galloway Council for its help in engaging the community. The process has helped inform a vision that reflects the needs and aspirations of the wider Lochside area by listening to the views of those who live and work in the area.

“The regeneration of Lochside forms part of Wheatley’s bold plans for Dumfries and Galloway over the coming years, where we will regenerate areas, build new homes, and create communities that meet the needs of people across the region.”

Councillor Andy Ferguson, Chair of Dumfries and Galloway Council's Economy and Infrastructure Committee, said:

“This is an ideal opportunity for local people to shape the future of Lochside, and it’s about more than just housing.

“We want the public to tell the council and Wheatley what their priorities for the area are – including travel, jobs, green spaces, and more. This group will be at the heart of delivering £130 million of investment into the area.

“Having the input of local residents will be vital to ensure that the regeneration of Lochside has the greatest possible impact for the community. The Masterplan was just the first step, as we now move into delivery on the ground.”

Since the regeneration was first launched, more than 1500 Wheatley customers, residents, and business owners have shared their views. In the feedback, residents highlighted that a strong sense of community is important to them, with many saying they welcome investment and regeneration in their area.

Find out more about the Lochside regeneration here: https://www.wheatleyhomes-south.com/my-home/my-community/lochside-regeneration/