Recent Press Releases

We publish all of our press releases from the last 12 months here so you can keep up to date.
Please email pressenquiry@dumgal.gov.uk if you'd like further details on any of our press releases.
If you want to speak to a communications officer, you can find their office-hours telephone numbers and what areas of the council they cover at www.dumgal.gov.uk/pressenquiry.

  • Council Hears 10,000 Voices

    Friday, 16 June 2023 11:29

    Dumfries and Galloway Council will receive a report on the findings of a recent consultation carried out with 10,828 young people aged 10 to 25 years, at a meeting of Full Council on Tuesday 27 June.

    Facilitated and published by the Council’s Youth Work Team, the consultation – named 10,000 Voices – involved 51.7% of young people in the region. The report gathers the views of young people and their perspectives about the communities in which they live and the issues that affect them.

    The research in the report is the region’s largest collection of young people’s voice and comes five years on from the first ever 10,000 Voices consultation that was carried out in 2018.

    Council Convener, Councillor Malcolm Johnstone said: “The number of young people that took part in the 2023 consultation was higher than in 2018. The findings will be used to develop a wide range of strategic and operational plans in our Council’s services and will help direct the work of community planning partners across the region. We have made a commitment that our Youth Work Service will create a five-year plan that will aim to tackle the key issues identified by young people themselves and ensure we direct the right kind of support to them.”

    The first part of the research was based on the Scottish Government’s Place Standards questionnaire and asked young people how they felt about the community where they live, work or study and presented 14 questions specific to the physical environment (buildings, street, public spaces and natural spaces) and the social environment (relationships, social contacts and support networks).

    They were asked to score each question on a scale of 1 to 7, 1 meaning there is a lot of room for improvement, and 7 meaning there is very little room for improvement.

    Of the 14 questions asked, the highest scoring responses across the region were in relation to young people feeling safe in their community, being able to regularly experience good quality natural spaces, and that young people felt they were easily walk and cycle around the local area.

    Councillor Johnstone added: “The Council’s vision of Dumfries and Galloway being a natural place to live, work, visit and invest is supported by young people’s positive perceptions of the local natural spaces across the region and I am delighted to learn that of the 55% of young people who plan to leave the region in the future for travel, work or study, that more than a quarter of them intend to come back.”

    The consultation also asked young people about the issues that affect them. The top five issues for young people in the region was identified as smoking and vaping, diet and body image, mental health, bullying and money, budgeting and the cost of living. When compared against the same question asked in 2018, the only shift in the results was money, budgeting and the cost of living now featuring within the top five answers, with transport dropping down the ranks. Smoking and vaping, diet and body image, mental health and bullying was in the top five issues in 2018 and remained there in the recent consultation.

    The report is presented as a regional overview of young people’s views, that is then broken down into ward areas. This will allow local communities, elected representatives, organisations, schools and other professionals to examine the results relevant to their area. Readers can also examine data analysed by age, gender and the perspectives of young people who are LGBT, care experienced, young carers and young people with additional support needs and disabilities.

    Over the next few weeks, the Youth Work Service will host a series of events across the region, inviting anyone who would like the opportunity to examine the findings in more detail to come along and join the conversation. You can find out about these events on the Youth Work social media pages at www.facebook.com/youthworkdg

    You can find a full copy of the report at: https://dumgal.gov.uk/youthwork

  • Youth Beatz Second Stage, Third Stage, and Kids Tent Line-ups Announced

    Wednesday, 14 June 2023 13:57

    Event organisers are delighted to share details for this years Second Stage, Third Stage and Kids Tent for Youth Beatz 2023.

    This year’s Second Stage will be brought to you in partnership with local organisation Dumfries Music Collective. DMC have developed a fantastic programme for the Second Stage on Saturday 1 and Sunday 2 July, featuring an amazing line up of young musicians from across Dumfries and Galloway and the central belt. The stage will offer a vast range of types of music from solo artists, bands, and DJs across the event weekend.

    DMC said: “We are immensely proud to be programming the second stage at this year’s Youth Beatz Festival. It’s an honour for us to have been able to offer this incredible performance opportunity to eighteen home grown Scottish bands and musicians, and to support them in playing to such a huge crowd. It is also a brilliant chance for us at Dumfries Music Collective to get out there and shout about what we do, which will allow us to support even more young people in Dumfries and Galloway in pursuing a career in music.”

    For the Third Stage at this year’s Festival, we will be showcasing dance acts from across Dumfries and Galloway. The stage will feature dance groups, cheerleading squads, solo performers and much more. This is a great opportunity for young people who are involved in grass roots dance groups in their local community to showcase their talents to audiences over the event weekend. In the evening, the stage will host two young DJs from Dumfries and Galloway.

    Chair of Dumfries and Galloway Council’s Communities Committee, Councillor Ian Blake said: “It is incredibly important to our Council to give young people a platform where they can showcase their talents to audiences from our own region as well as the rest of Scotland. Thank you to our partners at Dumfries Music Collective for bringing together an exciting line up of local talent for this year’s Second Stage. We are also delighted to be welcoming young dance performers from across our region to perform on the Third Stage over the event weekend.”

    Returning to Youth Beatz Festival is the popular Kids Tent. The Kids Tent will feature a series of scheduled performances from children’s entertainers from across Dumfries and Galloway including the Road Runner, Daffy Dill, Double Trouble, and Uncle Billy. At 5:30pm, the Kids Tent will turn into a Family Rave courtesy of Big Fish Little Fish, complete with balloons, confetti, bubbles and more.

    Vice Chair of Dumfries and Galloway Council’s Communities Committee, Councillor Jackie McCamon said: “It is great that we have so much talent on offer here in Dumfries and Galloway, and that there is a substantial offer for younger children at this year’s event through the Kids Tent and other activities that will be running as part of the event days.”

    If you would like more information about stage line ups, please visit our website at www.youthbeatz.co.uk and keep an eye out on our social media channels.

    ENDS

  • Scotland’s First Greener Events Toolkit Launched in Dumfries and Galloway

    Tuesday, 13 June 2023 16:45

    Dumfries and Galloway Council has researched and launched Scotland’s first Greener Events Toolkit, to support the work of festivals and events organisers across the region. The Toolkit has been produced in collaboration with the Southern Uplands Partnership Services Ltd and Galloway and Southern Ayrshire UNESCO Biosphere.

    The Toolkit aims to encourage festivals and events to be planned and delivered in Dumfries and Galloway with a better understanding of how to reduce their carbon emissions and plan for their long-term sustainability.

    The toolkit contains all the information, tips and advice organisers require to take forward their projects, putting our pristine, sensitive environment and the council’s commitment to reducing carbon outputs at the heart of their planning.

    Councillor Ian Blake, the Chair of the Council’s Communities Committee said, “The Toolkit has been produced as a resource for the many dozens of community events organisers across the region, who do so much to get our region on the map across Scotland and the UK. We want to acknowledge and encourage their efforts whilst working in partnership to sustain and protect our natural resources. Dumfries and Galloway is clearly one of the most unspoilt areas of the UK, and we have to do our utmost to protect our environment for this and future generations.”

    Councillor Jackie McCamon, the Vice-Chair of the Communities Committee said, “Our festivals and events are renowned across the UK, and they contribute so much to the quality of life of living in Dumfries and Galloway. The Toolkit in no way seeks to curb the work of events organisers, but to provide practical and concise guidance on how to integrate environmental management concerns into project planning. This will protect our economy in the longer term and make us a standout, renowned destination for the quality of our landscape and commitment to the environment.”

    A spokesperson for the Southern Uplands Partnership Services Ltd said, “We have been delighted to help the Council’s Events Strategy team to find ways to help local events planners consider how to be ‘greener’.

    “We look forward to seeing the roll-out of this toolkit to help events organisers develop and deliver excellent rural events while minimising any harms to place, people and wildlife, present and future. We would also like to see this approach extended right across South Scotland, where rural communities face similar challenges, strengths and potential!”

    Ed Forrest, Director of the UNESCO Biosphere said, “UNESCO Biospheres are recognised internationally as regions piloting new approaches to Sustainable Development. It’s very fitting that Scotland’s first Greener Events Toolkit builds on the experiences piloted within Scotland’s first Biosphere and is now rolling them out to a wider audience across Dumfries and Galloway, under a shared objective of promoting sustainability that is good for people, business and the environment.”

    A spokesperson for the Glentrool and Bargrennan Community Trust said, “The Greener Events Toolkit promises to be an invaluable resource for community organisations embarking on their first event venture or equally guiding already established and renowned festivals and events. As the first UNESCO recognised Biosphere Community within Galloway, our ethos partners well with Dumfries and Galloway Council’s greener initiative of delivering eco-friendly, sustainable projects which showcase our outstanding environmental beauty whilst also providing a focus for social and economic growth within our communities.”

    The toolkit is available free of charge to download athttps://dumgal.gov.uk/article/15762/

    If your events or community group is interested in organising a training session on greener events planning, email events@dumgal.gov.uk

    -ENDS-

  • Drowning Prevention week 2023

    Tuesday, 13 June 2023 11:45

    Drowning prevention week 2023 will take place from 17 to 24 of June. With our beaches, lochs and rivers being so inviting it is not surprising that so many residents and visitors are keen to get on the water to cool off, have fun and explore. Whilst this is a fantastic idea the Water Safety forum are keen to enforce key messages to ensure everyone is safe this summer.

    The message is simple – always follow the safety guidelines. Do not mix alcohol with activities involving water and be incredibly careful when using inflatable toys in the water, particularly in the sea, as they can very easily be pulled out by the current.

    Key statistics

    • There were 226 accidental fatalities in the UK in 2022: 105 of them during June, July, and August.
    • Of the 226 fatalities, 151 were in England; 45 in Scotland; 22 in Wales; and 8 in Northern Ireland.
    • Inland waters, such as rivers, canals, lakes, reservoirs, and quarries, continue to be the leading locations for accidental drowning, with 60% of deaths.
    • Males continue to be over-represented, with 83% of accidental fatalities.
    • Recreational activities accounted for 58% of accidental fatalities.

    We encourage everyone, either in groups or as individuals to visit Dumfries and Galloways beaches, walk across the hills following lochs and rivers, and why wouldn’t we when the landscape is so beautiful, and these activities are so good for our mental and physical health. However, being near water, even the smallest amount can be dangerous and Dumfries and Galloway Council, in partnership with the Water Safety Partnership, would encourage everyone heading out for the day to refresh their memories of the Water Safety Code. This information could save your life or the lives of others.

    Councillor Ian Blake, the Chair of the Council’s Communities Committee said “The work of the Water Safety Forum is extremely important, and the message is clear, please enjoy your time near or on water but do so safely. We do not want to discourage anyone from having fun this summer, far from it. The weather already this summer makes our beaches, lochs, and rivers even more inviting, but we need to remind people of the dangers, and encourage them to learn the skills needed to help prevent drownings. “

    Councillor Jackie McCamon, the Vice-Chair of the Communities Committee said “Drowning incidents happen to even the strongest swimmers when conditions are dangerous, and not all these dangers can easily be seen, these include hidden currents and cold-water shock. Please be safe this summer and if you see someone you think is drowning or in any danger call 999 immediately.”

    For more information about drowning prevention week please visit www.nationalwatersafety.org.uk.

  • The Toon Returns to Youth Beatz

    Monday, 12 June 2023 12:00

    The Toon Experience is a hard-hitting interactive drama that is delivered by young people, giving other young people information and advice when dealing with issues that commonly affect their lives, such as: knife crime, sectarianism, poverty and inequality, drugs and alcohol, and bullying. Young volunteers involved in The Toon have been working away behind the scenes writing their scripts, designing sets and much more and volunteering collectively over 1000 hours a week of time.

    The Toon is led by the Youth Enquiry Service and is a straight-talking way of providing information to young people aged 14-25 about current issues that might be affecting them, their peer group, or are likely to affect them in the future. The issues portrayed through the drama production are chosen by the young people involved in The Toon.

    The young performers and the stage crew, who can be seen throughout the weekend at Youth Beatz 2023, completed their 2-week intensive camp called “Toon Camp” that ran during the school Easter Holidays. Young people were involved in planning the immersive experience and developing the new show and set designs so that new and relevant issues can be explored at this year’s event. The camp saw young people taking part in various workshops in order to improve their knowledge and understanding about the complex issues that can affect young people. The course was also packed full of performance training, script writing, vocal coaching, costume design, set production, as well as vital learning through issue-based workshops on the topics that the experience will look to explore with those who venture through The Toon on the event days.

    Through a dedicated Makers Group, the young people turned their vision into a reality with set designs. The group who took part in Toon Camp also successfully completed their Bronze Youth Achievement Award. This is an award that credits the volunteers for the hard work that they have put into Toon and is rated Level 4 on the Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework (SCQF).

    Chair of Dumfries and Galloway Council’s Communities Committee, Councillor Ian Blake said: “It is incredibly important to Dumfries and Galloway Council to recognise and address the issues that our young people are facing on a daily basis. The Toon is a fantastic and innovative way of upskilling young people on a true peer to peer basis. The issues covered through the production are hard hitting, but the experience and messages taken away are thought provoking and hopeful, with helpful inputs from partner organisations who we are continually thankful for.”

    The Toon will run tours at Youth Beatz 2023, giving young people the chance to look round the fictional setting and meet different characters who are facing different situations. Young people will then go into a workshop with dedicated Youth Workers where they will have the chance to further explore some of the issues faced within The Toon.

    The Toon is an integral part of Youth Beatz 2023 which takes place on Saturday 1and Sunday 2July, once again at Park Farm, Dumfries. The interactive youth information has run for a number of years and has been a central hub for getting young people involved in what has been described as a “brilliant way of educating and making you think outside the box.”

    Vice-Chair of Dumfries and Galloway Council’s Communities Committee Councillor Jackie McCamon said: “The Toon is a fantastic way of providing information to young people through a peer education approach, with the topics being informed by the young people involved in the group. I would like to thank all of the young volunteers who are involved in The Toon production for all of their commitment and hard work.”

    The Toon is brought to you by Dumfries and Galloway Council’s Youth Work Service, working in partnership with Sexual Health D&G, Domestic Abuse Partnership, LGBT Youth, Rape Crisis, Alcohol and Drug Partnership, Fast Forward, Scottish Gambling Education Hub and Police Scotland.

    Funding has this year been secured through Dumfries and Galloway Council, Alcohol and Drugs Partnership, Fast Forward, The Scottish Gambling Education Hub, Cashback for Communities, and YoungStart.

    ENDS

  • Fully restored landmark fountain returns to Dumfries

    Monday, 12 June 2023 11:15

    As many will have noticed, the much anticipated 140 year-old fountain has now been returned to Dumfries town centre, fully restored. Following historic photos and descriptions from the time, the fountain is now in its original colour-scheme a looks as it did when it was brand new! The water is flowing once again and we are sure you will agree, it looks magnificent.

    To mark this historic occasion, Dumfries and Galloway Council, alongside our partners from The Stove Network, will be holding a formal ceremony at the fountain on 23rd June where members of the public are invited to attend. This ceremony marks the start of a series of events through the summer which we hope locals and visitors will enjoy and participate in.

    The fountain commemorates the introduction of fresh water to Dumfries and Maxwelltown that provided a turning point for the people of Dumfries following the devastating cholera epidemics of 1832 and 1848. Therefore, it’s very fitting, following the recent COVID Pandemic, that the fountain is brought back to its prime state now.

    It was an extremely complex operation, with the fountain being made up of over 100 dismountable cast iron parts, many of which were corroded. The fountain also now meets modern water safety standards.

    Thanks for the restoration goes to Industrial Heritage Consulting Limited with the works being undertaken by Wigan based Lost Art. These companies are amongst only a handful of specialists in the UK who were able to undertake the restoration of this fountain.

    Chair of Dumfries and Galloway Council’s Economy and Resources Committee, Councillor Ian Carruthers said: “The intricate and specialist project, led by Dumfries and Galloway Council, was picked-up after appeals from the public to restore the popular and historic town landmark. I hope the people of Dumfries and the surrounding area will attend the event on the day to see the full reinstatement and mark this once in 100 year occasion.”

    Vice Chair, Councillor David Inglis said: “This is great news and the culmination of a community-led project which has taken a long period of planning and hard work behind the scenes to get to this point. It has not been an easy task, and has literally meant stripping back the layers of history, but I am proud to see the results which will now be sustainable and will allow the fountain to continue to be a well-known local landmark for generations to come.”

    Katie Anderson, Public Art Lead at The Stove Network adds: "Seven years ago, we were approached by a member of ourcommunitywho had an idea topreserve the unique historyand significance of Dumfries fountain. It's been quite a journey since then and the Stove has supported the restoration project by working with local artists and groups to host a series of creative investigations and engagement opportunities throughout the project and leading on the creation of a series of new public art pieces set into the surrounding cobbles telling the history of the fountain."

    Kirsten Scott is the member of the local community who had that initial idea and approached The Stove Network. She said: “It is wonderful to be able to see the fountain restoration come to fruition. Everyone involved has shown such dedication and commitment to the project, and a level of craftsmenship that has been a privilege to witness. It would be lovely to build on this wave of infectious positivity by encouraging more people to tackle issues in their communities. Community-led action does get things done!”

  • Stranraer Ramp Park Opens with the Region’s First Legal Graffiti Boards

    Thursday, 08 June 2023 16:18

    Dumfries and Galloway Council’s Community Assets Service has been working with The Youth Work Team and a group of young people from Stranraer to co-design a brand-new Ramp Park facility in Stair Park and are excited to finally see their plans become reality as the park is officially unveiled.

    The council’s investment of £84,000.00 in the park was enhanced by the young people’s fundraising efforts to reach the funding goal of £101,800.00 and has enabled the removal of the former metal ramps that have now been replaced by a new, modern concrete facility.

    The Council has praised the young people who have been involved in this project and have contributed countless hours consulting with their peers, working with contractors to design the layout of the park and the new features, fundraising part of the costs and attending planning meetings. Their input has also meant that the skate ramp area will include seating, litter bins and a tarred path with additional entrance to the site – making sure it's fully accessible.

    Adding to the look and feel of the park, 8 legal graffiti boards have been installed, allowing budding street artists to practice the art without breaking the law. Last weekend, renowned street artist Tragic O’Hara was on hand to help young people get the project off the ground. Over 40 young people turned up to take part in the taster day that was funded by Stranraer Youth Café, that included developing their own tags and practising different spraying techniques. Further sessions have been planned to take place over the summer months.

    Councillor Ian Blake, Chair of the council’s Communities Committee said: “We committed to working with our local communities to ensure spaces meet their needs. Investment in projects such as this are a priority for our administration, and we encourage any community organisation to speak to their ward officer to explore other local development opportunities.

    “We also want to support young people to develop their skills and use their imagination. We know that Graffiti done right, can be an integral part of an area’s cultural identity, and that’s why we have installed legal spaces in Stranraer where young people can be creative while learning about the history and etiquette behind graffiti art.”

    With Phase one of the project complete, the teams are now looking to the future of the ramp park and considering further improvements that they will focus on achieving over the next year.

    Cloe Allison, Youth Councillor for Stranraer & The Rhins said: “It’s been a challenging and sometimes frustrating process being involved in a big project like this, but it has been worth the wait.We have learned a lot from the experience and we will continue to put our all our energy into the project!We are grateful to the Stranraer Common Good Fund for their financial support.”

    Councillor Jackie McCammon, Vice Chair of the council’s Communities Committee said: “We are delighted to have had the opportunity to work in partnership with local young people on this project. Their input and patience has been instrumental in getting the project complete and ensuring that we are meeting the needs of young people and the community.

    “It’s been great to see so many young people getting involved in the project. It’s great that they have been able to be involved in the development of the park, but exploring different styles and techniques of art and putting their own stamp on the ramp park is really important for their personal development – and their sense of ownership. The boards brighten up the area and an excellent way to showcase the amazing talents of our region’s young people.”

    For more information on any of the FREE activities on offer in your area through the Youth Work Team, check out Youth Work DG on Facebook, SnapChat and Twitter; their website: www.youthwork.dumgal.gov.uk or contact at youth.work@dumgal.gov.uk


    ENDS

  • Dumfries and Galloway Council Increasing its Roads Service Workforce

    Wednesday, 07 June 2023 20:57

    At Full Council on 28 February 2023, an additional £30m investment over the next five years was agreed for the Roads Service to repair more potholes, improve the drainage of our roads, repair more bridges, and improve the condition of our foot and cycle ways.

    The first stage in delivering the roads improvement plan is to increase the workforce – ensuring additional capacity through the creation of good quality local jobs, and having the needed resources in place to deliver this major maintenance programme.

    The first round of recruitment was launched on Tuesday 6 June, with posts in our front-line operational teams available in depots across the region.

    Councillor Ian Blake, Chair of the Council’s Communities Committee said: “Dumfries and Galloway Council is responsible for one of the biggest road networks in Scotland covering 4,202 km, which are the vital arteries that connect communities and our economy across the region. We are ensuring maximum benefit and value for money by taking a staged approach to spending the investment. The posts currently advertised are the start of the journey, and there are many more innovations on the way to help us improve our region’s road network.”

    The Roads Service is undertaking a recruitment campaign to encourage as many potential applicants as possible to apply to become a Roads Operative or Senior Roads Operative.

    You can meet with Roads Service staff at the Department of Work and Pensions’ Open Doors Recruitment event at The Bridge, Dumfries on 15 June 2023 10am – 2pm.

    For those in the west of our region, the Roads Service staff are hosting an informal drop-in session at Barnkirk Depot, Newton Stewart on 19 June 2023 1pm – 4pm.

    You can speak to our staff at these sessions about career opportunities in the service, what’s involved in the roles day-to-day, and how they started their careers. You will also be able to get support to complete and submit job applications through Dumfries and Galloway Council’s Employability Skills staff.

    Vice Chair of the Council’s Communities Committee, Jackie McCamon said: We are committed to using this investment to make a real difference to the roads network in our region. These posts not only provide an employment opportunity, but mean that the successful candidates can contribute to make a real difference in their community.”

    Applications close on 22 June, and you can find information and full details of the jobs at https://www.myjobscotland.gov.uk/councils/dumfries-galloway-council/jobs

    ENDS

  • Dumfries and Galloway’s Stand Out Signature Events Receive £145,000 Funding Boost

    Wednesday, 07 June 2023 13:15

    Dumfries and Galloway Council is continuing its active delivery of the regional events strategy, and at its Communities Committee on 6 June announced that £145,000 of funding has been awarded to six Signature Events. The events are this year’s Wigtown Book Festival and Scottish Rally and Spring Fling, the Arts Festival and Big Burns Supper in 2024. Funding will also be provided for a World Championship Ice Hockey tournament at Dumfries Ice Bowl, if and when the next World Championship Group is attracted to the venue.

    The Signature Events policy is unique in Scotland and the UK, and secures the immediate future of these events for local people. The Council’s Dumfries and Galloway Events Strategy 2023–2027 was adopted in October 2022 and aims to make the region the best in rural Scotland for planning, managing and visiting festivals and events.

    The Council is also committed to reviewing if any of the area’s growth events can become Signature Events from 2024, to aid the growth, profile and programmes of the next generation of major events in Dumfries and Galloway.

    Councillor Ian Blake, Chair of the Council’s Communities Committee said, “The Council is completely focussed on the implementation and delivery of the new regional Events Strategy. We have a positive, purposeful partnership with the region’s events organisers, and the Signature Events grants we have approved will be highly beneficial to the organisations we are supporting and business and tourism in our region.”

    Councillor Jackie McCamon, the Vice Chair of the Communities Committee said, “Our economy is benefitting from our tailored investment in festivals and events. Recently, Gatehouse of Fleet was transformed when the village hosted the Gralloch Gravel Cycling World Cup, with close to 1200 participants and 600 spectators. The event generated a wonderful atmosphere in Gatehouse of Fleet and a huge cash injection into the local economy. In the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic and the cost of living crisis, we are doing everything we possibly can to support our local economy and aid community wellbeing through our well researched events strategy.”

    ENDS

  • Progress on the Dumfries and Galloway British Sign Language Plan

    Wednesday, 07 June 2023 13:05

    On Tuesday 6 June, Dumfries and Galloway Council’s Communities Committee received an update on the progress towards the Dumfries and Galloway British Sign Language Plan 2018 to 2024.

    The BSL (Scotland) Act 2015, requires public bodies in Scotland to publish Plans every six years, showing how they will promote and support BSL. The British Sign Language (BSL) Plan 2018 to 2024 is a shared Plan for Dumfries and Galloway with NHS Dumfries and Galloway, Police Scotland V Division, Dumfries and Galloway College, and Dumfries and Galloway Council.

    Members of Communities Committee heard that significant progress has been made on actions in the BSL Plan, with all actions on target or completed. Highlights among the progress include:

    • The introduction of BSL Drop-In Clinics for the Deaf BSL Community, led and facilitated by the Social Work Sensory Support Team.
    • Awareness raising for Sign Language Week in March 2023 by the Social Work Sensory Support Team, and awareness raising of Deaf Awareness Week in May 2023 by the Poverty and Inequalities Team and Social Work Sensory Support Team – supported by a programme of activities.
    • Dumfries and Galloway Society for the Deaf have joined the Equality and Diversity Working Group who work in partnership to empower people to make positive contributions to their communities by challenging discrimination, promoting greater integration and by maximising support for everyone across Dumfries and Galloway.

    Councillor Ian Blake, Chair of the council’s Communities Committee said: “It is great to see the progress that has been made to date on the British Sign Language Plan. The provision of BSL taster courses has proven really popular, and the information and support provided to our council’s staff means they are better able to support colleagues and members of the public in the deaf community.”

    The Committee also considered how a new BSL plan will be developed. The new British Sign Language Plan for 2024 – 2030 will be developed in partnership with our local Deaf, Hard of Hearing and BSL Community, and community engagement and consultation will play a significant part in preparing the new six-year Plan.

    Vice Chair of Communities Committee, Councillor Jackie McCamon said: Although we are not yet at the end of the term for the current BSL Plan, we are forward looking to ensure we remain progressive, and to meet the needs of the communities in Dumfries and Galloway.”

    The current Shared British Sign Language (BSL) Plan for Dumfries and Galloway 2018-24 can be read in full at: https://dumgal.gov.uk/article/18027/British-Sign-Language-BSL-Plan

  • Keeping Scotland Beautiful Litter League

    Monday, 05 June 2023 11:30

    Litter League Success for Dumfries and Galloway Schools.

    Environmental charity Keep Scotland Beautiful launched the Litter League Schools competition as part of the Spring Clean Campaign again this year and schools in Dumfries and Galloway took first, second and third place for the South of Scotland category which has been extremely exciting for all involved.

    The campaign is an exciting and fun way to get young people of all ages involved in litter picking whilst learning the importance such tasks have on combating climate change, reducing litter and protecting nature. The litter league is a competitive league table allowing schools, youth groups and nurseries to compete against each other to win one of 7 different awards, with Dumfries and Galloway being eligible for the Scotland South Spring Clean Trophy.

    As a region 1884 volunteers took part in events from Langholm in the far west of the region, to Stranraer in the far east. As the number of volunteers increased during the campaign alongside the number of events taking place, our schools soon joined in and had young people from nurseries to secondary school pupils donning their high viz jackets and grabbing their litter pickers to make their mark on the campaign.

    May 19 saw the schools league trophy presented to Shawhead primary by Keeping Scotland Beautiful Campaign Coordinator Heather McLaughlin who said, “This first year of our Litter League has proved to be a tremendous success. We have seen thousands of young people get involved from across the country to help us clean up Scotland.

    “Litter League has proven that no matter your age, size or how many people are on your team, it is possible to have a positive impact and contribute to keeping Scotland beautiful.

    “We are currently facing a litter emergency in Scotland, and we need everyone to play their part. I want to thank every single participant who got involved and tried and say a huge congratulations to all our winners.”

    Dumfries and Galloway Council’s Chair of Communities Committee, Councillor Ian Blake said:

    “The Keeping Scotland Beautiful, Spring Clean Scotland campaign 2023 has been fantastic. To be able to say that 1706 volunteers supported this initiative shows the strength, resilience and civic pride that is had by residents of Dumfries and Galloway.We have been privileged to meet with these volunteers in each of the twelve wards since the campaign finished to thank them personally for their efforts.”

    “It is a further pleasure to find out that schools within our region were not only involved with the Litter league competition, but that three local schools took gold, silver, and bronze for the South of Scotland competition. Our schools and communities are showing the country how committed they are to protecting their local environments and highlighting the education that our people are receiving and how important it is to them.’ Well done to all schools who took part.”

    Dumfries and Galloway Council’s Chair of Education Committee, Councillor Richard Brodie said:

    “Dumfries and Galloway Council’s Chair of Education Committee, Councillor Richard Brodie said: “Our schools, our staff, and our young people are an asset to this region. The work put into learning about the environment through various projects including the Litter League, delivered by Spring Clean Scotland is fantastic and I am so pleased for Shawhead Primary for their fantastic efforts in this year’s competition.”

    “It says a lot that the top 3 schools in South of Scotland competition were from Dumfries and Galloway and goes to show how important environmental education is, and how well received opportunities like these are adopted by our schools. Many children have been asking to take litter pickers home to continue the splendid work showing how committed the young people are to truly making a difference. The future looks litter free with these young people being so well educated and enthusiastic about litter picking and the effects it has on the environment. Well done to Shawhead Primary, Leswalt Primary and Kirkcolm Primary for their fantastic achievement.”

    The schools league competition delivered by Keeping Scotland Beautiful will return next year where all schools will have the chance to compete again. For more information about the charity please visit, www.keepingscotlandbeautiful.org.

    The end

  • Youth Beatz 2023 Fringe Festival Launched

    Friday, 02 June 2023 16:36

    The 2023 Youth Beatz Fringe Festival will run for 8 days between Wednesday 21 June and Thursday 29 June, with an event in each Ward area. The Fringe provides activities for young people and their families across our region, with the events themselves being designed by a group of young volunteers with a focus on providing opportunities that are entirely free and accessible geographically to communities across Dumfries and Galloway.

    The Youth Beatz Fringe 2023 will offer a wide range of activities and events that are open to all to attend but also events that are specifically for young people with additional support needs, care experienced young people and young parents.

    From silent discos to football nights, an outdoor movie night to a pool party, there is something for everyone being delivered in local communities across the region. All Fringe events are free for people to attend and this year as well as events aimed at young people aged 12–25, there are also sessions open to children and families to attend.

    The Fringe is being kicked off in Dalbeattie at the Town Hall on Wednesday 21 June with a Summer Party featuring music, games and inflatables 6.30 to 8.30pm. This session is specifically for young people with additional support needs and disabilities.

    On Thursday 22 May, we’ve got a family Quiz and Curry Night taking place at the Whithorn New Town Hall 6.30 to 8.30pm where there will be plenty of prizes to be won.

    On Friday 23 June, there are events taking place across each locality in Dumfries and Galloway, starting with a family friendly rave in the afternoon at the Miners Hall in Kirkconnel 1 to 3pm, the Family Rave is an event for parents under the age of 25 and their children to enjoy. At night, there’s:

    • Inflatable Fun event in Kelloholm at Hillview Leisure Centre 6.30 to 8.30pm.
    • Football Night with freestyle demo’s, teqball + more in Dalbeattie at the High School MUGA 7 to 9pm.
    • Pool Party at the Merrick Leisure Centre in Newton Stewart from 7 to 9pm.
    • A Silent Disco in Annan at the Victoria Halls 7 to 9pm.

    On Saturday 24 June, the Fringe is returning to the original home of Youth Beatz, Dock Park 12noon to 3pm. In partnership with Dumfries and Galloway Council’s Lifelong Learning Team, we are delighted to be a delivering Party in the Park – a community fun day open to all families, as part of Scottish Refugee Celebration Week. On Saturday evening, there are events taking place in Lochside at North West Community Campus MUGA 6 to 8pm, where there will be a Football Night, and Lockerbie Town Hall 7 to 9pm for a Silent Disco.

    On Sunday 25 June, the Fringe heads over to the west and we are really excited to be hosting an Urban Adventure Afternoon 1 to 3pm at the brand-new skate park in Stranraer. This event will see outdoor adventure activities, music, inflatables and more delivered throughout the afternoon. On Sunday evening, the Urban Adventure continues in Castle Douglas from 7 to 9pm at Market Hill.

    On Monday 26 June, we’ve got a blockbuster Outdoor Movie Night from 6.30 to 9pm at the Harbour in Kirkcudbright that families are welcome to attend. Keep an eye out on our social media where we’ll announce the film.

    On Tuesday 27 June, the Fringe will be in Langholm for a night of Bubble Football 7 to 9pm at the 3G pitch. In case you’re wondering, bubble football sees players half-encased inside an inflated torus bubble, like a zorb – it’s an experience not to be missed by players or spectators!

    The penultimate event for the Fringe takes place on Wednesday 28 June, 7 to 9pm in Locharbriggs at Auchencrieff Park for an Outdoor Silent Disco where we’ll be running competitions and challenges throughout the night and awarding prizes!

    The Fringe Finale will take place Thursday 23 June at Park Farm Showfield in Dumfries, where the Youth Beatz Site will host the third annual gathering for care experienced young people from across the region, #WeCare 12noon to 8pm. The programme has been designed by young people and is a chance for young people to enjoy themselves, try new experiences and have their say. This is the only fringe event that requires registration in advance. If you would like to know more, please e-mail championsboard@dumgal.gov.uk or call 01387 260243.

    Chair of Dumfries and Galloway Council’s Communities Committee, Councillor Ian Blake said: “The Youth Beatz Fringe Festival allows us to take fun events to communities across our region. I am delighted to see that the Fringe will have an event in each Ward area of Dumfries and Galloway, ensuring that young people across the region are able to attend events in their local area, and at no cost to them and their families. I would like to thank all of the Volunteers who have been involved in the co-design and the upcoming delivery of the Youth Beatz Fringe Festival.”

    Vice-Chair of Dumfries and Galloway Council’s Communities Committee, Councillor Jackie McCamon said: “Our Council is delighted to see this action-packed programme that covers the length and breadth of Dumfries and Galloway for the Youth Beatz Fringe Festival. The range of activities that are available during the Fringe support our young people to try new things, broaden their horizons and fulfil their potential, enabling them to build their confidence and instilling a sense of civic pride.”

    Throughout the Youth Beatz Fringe Festival there will be competitions and challenges for young people attending to win tickets for this year’s Youth Beatz – for which all tickets have been allocated - and Golden Tickets for ‘Meet and Greets’ with performers.

    Chairperson of Dumfries and Galloway Youth Council Finlay Anderson said: “Youth Beatz Festival is so much more than the main event weekend and the Fringe is delivering a great programme across the region like never before. It is great to see such a broad range of events happening across Dumfries and Galloway!”

    All events are FREE to attend and other than the final #WeCare event, there is no sign up required!

    ENDS

  • Exercising of the Freedom of Dumfries and Galloway by the Royal Regiment of Scotland

    Friday, 02 June 2023 14:56

    The Royal Regiment of Scotland (SCOTS) was formed in 2006 through the amalgamation of Scotland’s historic infantry regiments to form a single fighting force. They are the senior line infantry regiment and the only Scottish line infantry of the British Army.
    In June 2008, Dumfries and Galloway Council was the first area in Scotland to grant the Royal Regiment of Scotland the Freedom of the region.
    Fifteen years on, The Royal Regiment of Scotland will Exercise the Freedom of Dumfries and Galloway on Friday 9 June 2023.
    Lieutenant Colonel Hugo I M Clark MBE SCOTS of The Royal Regiment of Scotland said: “I am really proud to be representing the Colonel of the Regiment when soldiers of the Royal Regiment of Scotland exercise their Freedom of Dumfries on 9 June. We trace our close connection to Dumfries through the King’s Own Scottish Borderers – one of the oldest and most distinguished of our antecedent Regiments. I hope that the people of Dumfries will take time out to watch the parade on Friday morning and talk to our soldiers afterwards. For all this very ancient, proud heritage, they will find that the British Army is professional and forward-looking, made up of motivated young people, proud of being Scottish and reflective of modern Scottish society – in short, they’re people just like you."
    Dumfries and Galloway Council Civic Head, Councillor Malcolm Johnstone said: “Our Council is proud to share that The Royal Regiment of Scotland will exercise their Freedom of Dumfries and Galloway fifteen years on from when it was first granted to them. Many local men and women serve in the Royal Regiment of Scotland, carrying out difficult and often dangerous asks on our behalf, so this is a unique opportunity for the people of Dumfries and Galloway to show their appreciation, and to welcome these soldiers back. Along with our freedom for The Royal British Legion Scotland, and our Armed Forces Covenant, this demonstrates our region’s support for our armed forces."
    Dumfries and Galloway Council Armed Forces Champion, Councillor Archie Dryburgh MBE said: "We welcome once again the Royal Regiment of Scotland to exercise their Freedom Right to march in Dumfries. The Regiment was awarded the Freedom of Dumfries and Galloway in 2008, and we are extremely pleased to see them exercising their rights in our region. We know that the people of Dumfries and Galloway will come out to show their support on 9 June to line the route and to cheer on our soldiers, cadets and veterans, in the same way that they have always done. We are looking forward to seeing the exhibitions from the Royal Regiment of Scotland promoting SCOTS heritage and the work of the regimental museum and from the SCOTS Infantry Engagement Team that will be on display in the town centre.
    "At the same time, and in support of our friends in Ukraine, there will be a Help for Ukraine stall where you can show your support by donating items such as first aid kits, household medicines, rucksacks and cotton t-shirts or where you can simply make a donation. These items are vital not only for those serving on the front line but are also vital for those civilian families that have remained in Ukraine."

    TheParade will consist of:
    • Cruachan IV Pony
    • The Royal Regiment of Scotland Military Bands
    • The Royal Regiment of Scotland Pipes and Drums
    • Colour Party
    • Guards
    • Representatives of local Royal British Legion Scotland Branches will join the parade at Buccleuch Street.
    The Parade will form up at the car park of DG One at 11.45, depart on the route at 12 noon, and return at the end of the Parade at 12.45pm. There will be displays and exhibition stands
    from the Royal Regiment of Scotland – promoting SCOTS heritage and the work of the regimental museum, the SCOTS Infantry Engagement Team, and Help for Ukraine at the Planestanes, High Street, Dumfries from 10am to 2.30pm.



    ENDS

  • £36 Million of Capital Investment for Our Region’s Economy

    Wednesday, 31 May 2023 12:10

    Together with funding secured from additional sources, Dumfries and Galloway Council’s Economic Development Capital Programme (EDCP) 2023/24 to 2025/26 comprises over £36million of capital investment for our region’s economy. The EDCP is a rolling three-year programme of investment in economic development and place-based regeneration projects of a capital nature. It is frequently boosted with external funding.

    Members of Dumfries and Galloway Council’s Economy and Resources Committee will be asked to:

    • Agree that Stage 1 submissions to the Scottish Government’s Regeneration Capital Grant Fund 2024/25 should be prepared and submitted for the Kelloholm Skills and Innovation Centre Project, and the Let's Get Sporty Lochvale House Expansion Project.
    • Agree that a submission should be prepared for the Annan Harbour Regeneration project to the Scottish Government’s Vacant and Derelict Land Investment Programme 2024/25.

    The Economic Development Capital Programme of investment has been targeted at the regeneration of vacant sites and premises in many of our region’s town and village centres, with priority status being given to investment in projects at Stranraer, Dumfries, Annan, Upper Nithsdale and Langholm. In addition to this, capital investment has also been targeted at supporting business expansion and growth to enable job creation to take place.

    A key aim of the Community Led Economic Regeneration Fund (CLERF) is to fund the development costs of projects to a stage of technical readiness to pursue external funding.

    In 2022/23 projects supported through CLERF included:

    • Annan Harbour Regeneration Project

    • Dalbeattie Rocks & Wheels Project

    • Thornhill Old School Project

    • Lets Get Sporty Lochvale House Expansion Project

    • Carsphairn Rural Skills Centre Project

    A key aim of the CLERF is to fund the development costs of projects to a stage of technical readiness to pursue external funding.

    As a result of CLERF funding, two projects have been developed to a stage that enabled them to be targeted for UK Government Levelling Up Fund (the Annan and Dalbeattie projects) while the Thornhill project was able to secure Regeneration Capital Grant Funding in 2022/23. In addition to this, technical development work on the Let's Get Sporty Lochvale House project has been progressed and the project is now being brought forward for approval by E&R Committee.

    Chair of Economy and Resources Committee, Councillor Carruthers said: “The proposed capital allocations will enable the development and delivery of a portfolio of development programmes and projects that will deliver economic benefits for our communities across the region. The projects increase the need for traditional skills, particularly when restoring our heritage buildings, and therefore boost employment.”

    Vice Chair, Councillor David Inglis said: “This funding is going to communities who are best placed to identify where it is most needed. These projects, along with Conservation Area Regeneration Scheme also identified in the report, are helping to restore our historic landmarks and buildings, and also bringing unused properties back into community use, while also improving the look of our towns and villages.”

  • Dumfries and Galloway Council Regional Food Plan

    Wednesday, 31 May 2023 12:06

    The Good Food Nation Act places duties on Scottish Ministers and certain publicauthorities to produce plans of their policies in relation to food and set out what they will do to make those plans real.

    Scottish Government has asked that these plans are created and adopted by 2025 and that they will deliver outcomes which support: our nation’s social and economic wellbeing, the environment, people’s health and physical and mental wellbeing, economic development, animal welfare, education and child poverty.

    Members of Dumfries and Galloway Council’s Economy and Resources Committee will be asked to consider a report on the formulation of such policies at their meeting on 8th June 2023 which relates to the excellent work of the 4 principals and themes of the Dumfries and Galloway Sustainable Food partnership and its stakeholders. Members will also be asked to agree that a regional food plan is included as a strategic outcome for 2023/2024 as per our council plan.

    Dumfries and Galloway Council will need to create and adopt the Regional Food Plan over the next 2 years. There is an opportunity to align the new Regional Food Plan with existing thematic areas and work streams established that they support, these are:

    • Healthy Food for All Tackling food poverty, diet related ill-health and access toaffordable healthy food.

    • Good Food Movement Building public awareness, active food citizenship and alocal good food movement.

    • Sustainable Food Economy Creating a vibrant, prosperous and diversesustainable food economy.

    • Food Governance and Strategy Taking a strategic and collaborative approach togood food governance and action.

    • Food for the Planet Tackling the climate and nature emergency throughsustainable food and farming and an end to food waste.

    • Catering and Procurement Transforming catering and procurement andrevitalising local and sustainable food supply chains.

    Chair of Economy and Resources Committee, Councillor Carruthers said: “Food and Drink is Dumfries and Galloway’s largest, fastest growing and most valuable economic sector and we are a region of high quality primary production and of food manufacturing and expertise. Good quality healthy food should be an every day reality for everyone. If that food is locally sourced, then that is better for all.”

    Vice Chair, Councillor David Inglis said: “Obviously access to good quality food and drink is extremely important, not only for health, but also for the food and drink industry and therefore the economy. This is a tight turnaround to have policies in place for 2025, but there is a good result at the end people will take pride and pleasure from the food they produce, serve and consume.”

  • Tackling Fuel Poverty and Reducing Energy Inefficiency

    Wednesday, 31 May 2023 11:55

    Scottish Government funding of £2.364 million will benefit our region. The purpose of the funding is to tackle fuel poverty and reduce carbon emissions in Dumfries and Galloway. The focus will be on whole street solid wall insulation, loft and cavity wall insulation, and a whole house approach to energy saving.

    Energy efficiency improvement is a strategic infrastructure priority for the Scottish Government. Area Based Schemes (ABS) contribute to delivering wider aims, including ensuring fewer Scottish households experience fuel poverty and extreme fuel poverty and reducing energy inefficiency.

    The Dumfries and Galloway Local Housing Strategy 2018-23 seeks to maximise the use of funding to deliver energy efficiency measures to homes in the private sector. The scheme delivery is aligned with the Council Plan Principles and Themes, with a particular focus on Economy, and Health and Wellbeing. By reducing carbon emissions, the project also contributes to addressingthe Climate Emergency.

    Members of the Council’s Economy and Resources Committee (8 June) will be asked to agree on the projects for Dumfries and Galloway Council’s Energy Efficient Scotland Area Based Scheme (ABS) and note the funding allocation of £2,371,919 in 2023/24.

    It has been shown that the patterns of deprivation in rural areas are complex, many households in rural areas live in poverty in dispersed locations. Therefore, our Council must continue efforts to ensure funding is targeted at those in most need. The ABS Projects have helped local residents save on fuel bills, improve health, combat climate change, and regenerate communities.

    The report being presented at Committee recommends that our Council maintain its approach to ensure investment is evenly distributed to help address fuel poverty across the entire region, advocating the process refined to include the following:

    • Area 1 – Central D&G SWI – This area will be a continued project targeting streets that extend the current Lochside Project and a previous project in the Lincluden area. (Targeting streets in the bottom 10% of the SIMD for income, health, and employment.)

    • Area 2 – East D&G SWI – the focus of this area is to continue to target the rural areas that are in the bottom three deciles for geographical access based on data from SMID 2016. We will aim to install External Wall Insulation (EWI) to a mix of hard-to-treat cavity properties in Eastriggs. This area also has low-income indicators from the bottom 40% SMID 2016.

    • Area 3 – West D&G SWI – this area will be a continued project targeting streets that extend the Stranraer Project. The targeted area of Stranraer is in the bottom 25% of the SMID or below and households in the region have a 60% probability of being in fuel poverty based on the current home analysis data.

    Within each area, each householder application will be assessed to identify those in extreme fuel poverty. The extreme fuel poverty grant will be applied to maximise measures for those most in need. Whole street approaches are implemented by identifying more than one household and carrying out simultaneous works. This results in cost efficiencies, reduces customer contributions and allows more homes to benefit from the scheme.

    Chair of the Dumfries and Galloway Council Economy and Resources Committee, Cllr Ian Carruthers, said: “As a result of the ongoing implementation of this successful programme, I am happy to see the progress made. Fuel poverty is an issue we are determined to address, and in our rural region, this scheme is essential. One of our core Council Plan Principles is to Support our Citizens. Schemes such as this allow us to do exactly that. In addition to tackling fuel poverty, which is absolutely crucial in light of the current cost of living crisis, making improvements to homes across the region also helps reduce our carbon footprint.”

    Vice Chair, Cllr David Inglis, said: “Our Council is committed to addressing poverty in all its forms, including fuel poverty. Hopefully, the measures outlined in the report will help to reduce fuel poverty across our region to an even greater degree. To address some of the causes of poverty in a rural area like Dumfries and Galloway, this project is vital. We are confident that the whole street approach will help to target households in those areas across our region that are in need.”

  • Amazing Summer Fund 2023 Launched

    Tuesday, 23 May 2023 14:23

    Dumfries and Galloway Council is delighted to announce a £80,000 fund is available for local Third Sector Organisations in Dumfries and Galloway to give Children and Young people a Summer to remember! Following on from the successes of the Amazing Summer fund over the last two years, we are once again seeking local organisations who will deliver free activities for children and young people aged 5–16 for the duration of the summer holidays – allowing them opportunities to socialise, meet with and make new friends across our region.

    This funding is to provide children and young people, aged 5–16 with activities over the summer. The programmes should enhance equity by widening opportunities for children from low-income families to play, socialise, get active and access a range of activities that broaden their experiences, supplement their learning and deliver positive outcomes and integrating food provision wherever possible, and be focussed on children and young people within our priority groups. It is hoped that through the fund there will be a range of different activities and experiences for young people of all ages from communities across Dumfries and Galloway.

    Chair of Dumfries and Galloway Council’s Communities Committee, Councillor Ian Blake said: “By providing young people across our region with the opportunity to take part in a programme of exciting Summer opportunities, it will encourage them to broaden their horizons, and build their confidence while having fun with their friends. The programme of activities is being co-produced with local children and young people to ensure that they get the activities that they enjoy, and they will also be key part of the decision-making panel.”

    Third Sector organisations from across Dumfries and Galloway can apply for this funding for amounts of £500 up to £7,500.

    Vice-Chair of Dumfries and Galloway Council’s Communities Committee Councillor Jackie McCamon said of the fund: “This funding opportunity for our Third Sector Partners continues our commitment as a local authority to ensure that we create lifelong learning opportunities that allow children and young people to develop their skills and contribute to their communities. This funding is available for all third sector groups, and we want to support as many groups as possible to help make this a truly amazing summer holiday for our local children and young people.”

    Applications are now open. The closing date for submission of completed applications is 12 noon on Tuesday 6 June 2023.

    Finlay Anderson, Chairperson of Dumfries & Galloway Youth Council said: “The Youth Council is really pleased to be working alongside the Council to deliver an amazing summer programme of activities for young people across our region. It’s always exciting for members of The Youth Council to collaborate with our partners for the benefit of young people. It is so important to ensure that the funding goes to opportunities that will make the most difference to young people across the length and breadth of Dumfries and Galloway.”

    Application forms and guidance notes can be downloaded at www.dumgal.gov.uk/grants

    If you have any questions on the application process or would like any advice and guidance, please e-mail us at AmazingSummer@dumgal.gov.ukor call 01387 260 243.

    ENDS

  • Getting Annandale Active

    Wednesday, 17 May 2023 12:22

    During 2018 and 2019, a number of public consultations were held in the Annan area to find out how the local community felt about their town centre. One of the main themes to emerge was about how to get around the area utilising active travel.

    As result of these consultations Dumfries and Galloway Council submitted applications to Places for Everyone,an active travel infrastructure programme funded by the scottish Government and administered by Sustrans Scotland.

    Our Council is delighted to announce that we have been successful in securing funding through Places for Everyone.

    This funding will enable us to explore how active travel can be incorporated into Annan town centre and how we can link Gretna, Eastriggs, Annan and Powfoot to encourage more people to walk, wheeland cycle in Annandale.

    The aim for Annan town centre is to encourage more people to walk, wheel and cycle for their everyday journeys,making car parking less dominant and more effective.The priorities include creating awalking, wheelingand cycling network, improving the high street pedestrian experience, and creating a parking strategy.

    The Village Links project will connect Annan, Eastriggs, Gretna and Powfoot by extending theexisting cycle paths. There are also several core paths in the area which are used for walking, wheeling and cycling. By linking these with new paths, and upgrading some of the existing routes, this will allow safer travel for everyday journeys.

    Consultants are now in place, and we will be holding community consultation events very soon. These will be your opportunity to have your say and put your ideas forward about getting around in Annan town centre, and how the villages of Gretna, Eastriggs, Annan and Powfoot should link up. To find out more and keep updated with developments in the projects please go to: https://www.dumgal.gov.uk/article/26757/Active-Annandale

    Councillor Ian Caruthers, Chair of D&G Council’s Economy and Resources Committee said: “These are two exciting projects that will give our local communities a voice as to how we can improve getting about in Annan town centre and how to safely link Gretna, Eastriggs, Annan and Powfoot, to encourage more people to walk and cycle to work, become healthier, and enjoy our beautiful countryside.”

    Ian Blake, Chair of the Council’s Communities Committee said: “This is the opportunity for the communities of Annan and the surrounding area to help shape the feasibility of what is possible in our towns. Our Council declared a Climate Emergency, and this continues to be a primary focus of what we do. We encourage all of our communities to cut down on car use, where possible, to result in a cleaner climate. The positive benefits of active travel not only impact on health and wellbeing but also reduces our carbon footprint and helps adapt to a low carbon approach.”

    Connor Cross, Grant Manager at Sustrans Scotland, said: "We are pleased to be working with Dumfries and Galloway Council to make active travel in and around Annan town centre safer and more accessible for everyone, as well as imnproving connectivity within the region. We encourage everyone to put forward their views through this consultation to ensure the projects reflect the needs of the community and we create something that will be widely used and enjoyed. "

  • New Abbey Primary School Celebrate Positive School Inspection

    Tuesday, 16 May 2023 10:05

    In March, a team of inspectors from Education Scotland visited New Abbey Primary to find out how well children are learning and achieving. Inspectors evaluated New Abbey Primary’s leadership and ensuring wellbeing, equality and inclusion as ‘very good’ and learning, teaching and assessment and raising attainment and achievement as ‘good’.


    In a letter to parents, Education Scotland recognised the following strengths of the school. Key points included:

    • The headteacher successfully leads and promotes a culture of self-evaluation at New Abbey Primary School. The whole school community contributes to leadership of change and improvement. This is supporting improved outcomes for children and families.

    • All children know and understand the school values and demonstrate them in all aspects of school life. They have a strong understanding of children’s rights and enjoy nurturing and respectful relationships with each other and staff. This is contributing to a happy, inclusive and positive learning environment for all.
    • The staff know all children well as individuals and track their progress carefully. This helps them to support children to make good progress in their learning. Children are benefitting from a wide range of approaches which are helping to raise attainment in literacy and numeracy.

    • The school community works well together to ensure that potential barriers to learning and participation are addressed. This is helping to ensure equity of opportunity for all children.

    Debbie Shuttleworth, Chair of New Abbey Parent Council said:

    "I think it’s fantastic and I’m very proud of our wee school."

    Inspectors reported that;

    “The involvement of the whole school and local community in taking forward improvements is very effective. The headteacher takes a well-planned, inclusive and creative approach to ensuring that all stakeholders have appropriate opportunities to contribute their views and provide feedback. As a result, there is a strong collective understanding of the school’s improvement priorities and widespread recognition of progress to date and next steps.”

    Cllr Richard Brodie, Chair of the Council’s Education and Learning Committee commented:

    "The teachers and children of New Abbey Primary Primary School deserve high praise for this inspection report. There is great leadership at the top and individual teachers provide wide-ranging learning experiences for pupils, ensuring that everyone has access to the curriculum. Children work together and create a welcoming environment for the whole school community. Well done everyone.”

    Cllr Maureen Johnstone, Vice Chair of the Education and Learning Committee went on to say:

    “New Abbey Primary, should be very proud of what they have achieved, and advanced through shared leadership, equal opportunities and breaking down learning barriers, creating a happy positive environment.”

    A copy of the inspection report can be found at https://education.gov.scot/media/bawfoplu/new-abbey-ps-ins-160523.pdf

  • Youth Beatz 2023 – Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Residential Opportunity

    Friday, 12 May 2023 16:32

    Youth Beatz Festival is once again delighted to invite young people back to Park Farm Showfield in Dumfries to complete their Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Gold Residential.

    The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award is a youth awards programme that helps and enables young people to discover new interests and talents, encouraging them to develop essential skills for life through volunteering and activity-based programmes.

    Chair of Dumfries and Galloway Council’s Communities Committee Councillor Ian Blake said: “The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award provides young people with fantastic opportunities to broaden their horizons and to learn new skills. We are excited to be welcoming more young people from Dumfries and Galloway and from across Scotland to take part in this great residential, delivered in partnership with the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award in Scotland.”

    Participants are invited from across Dumfries and Galloway and the rest of Scotland in order to undertake their gold residential section at Scotland’s largest free youth music festival. Young people will work alongside the Council's Youth Work team to work on-site at Youth Beatz 2023, helping to build, deliver and take down the event – providing vital support in the delivery of the Festival.

    Vice-Chair of Dumfries and Galloway Council’s Communities Committee Councillor Jackie McCamon said: “Providing young people with opportunities such as the Youth Beatz Duke of Edinburgh's Award Residential is very important to our Council. We are grateful to the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award and thank them for their ongoing partnership enabling us to create lifelong learning opportunities that allow young people to develop their skills and contribute to their community.”

    The Duke of Edinburgh gold level residential will run from Wednesday 28June until Wednesday 5July. The residential is free for young people residing in Dumfries and Galloway, and £100 for those who live out with the region (cost includes all meals and accommodation).

    To register, please visit www.youthbeatz.co.uk/dofe the deadline for applications is Monday 5June.

    If you would like more information, please contact Rhea Currie

    Telephone: 01387 260243

    Email: dofe@dumgal.gov.uk

    ENDS

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