Dumfries and Galloway Council voted in December 2026 to proceed with the Whitesands Project in Dumfries, combining major flood defences with significant public realm improvements.
The Whitesands Project is a key initiative to safeguard Dumfries from the River Nith flooding while revitalising the riverside area.
No Impact on Upcoming Dumfries Fairs
As the Whitesands Project Team continues preparations for the main construction phase, we’d like to reassure the community that there will be no impact on either the March or September Dumfries Fairs this year.
The recent ground investigation work and temporary site compound located at Dockhead, along with any remaining equipment from recent site investigation works, has been removed in advance of the Fair arriving this coming week.
The Dumfries Fairs Working Group – which includes representatives from the Showmen’s Guild, Fair Scotland, council officers and the Whitesands Project design team – continues to meet monthly. Together, they are working towards a finalised arrangement for how the Fair will be accommodated in future years once the Whitesands Project is complete.
The council remains committed to maintaining close communication with Fair organisers, ensuring that planning for future years is undertaken collaboratively and with consideration for the longstanding presence of the Fair in the town.
Tree Works to Begin
Dumfries and Galloway Council is preparing to undertake essential early‑stage tree management works at Greensands.
The initial works will involve pollarding, a long‑established pruning technique that removes selected upper branches during the dormant season. This approach will help control tree size.
Importantly, no trees are being removed at this stage. The works are solely focused on pruning to manage their structure and to prevent birds nesting. Trees will be removed when the Greensands phase of construction work commences.
A contractor has been appointed and the works are now starting. This advance activity forms part of the wider preparations ahead of construction beginning on the Whitesands Project.
New Whitesands Project Website Launched
We are pleased to announce that the new Whitesands Project website, where you can find dedicated information about the scheme, is now live.
The site will be regularly updated with project news, construction progress, and blogs from the project team as work continues.
Get in Touch
If you have any questions, please contact the project team on WhitesandsProject@dumgal.gov.uk.