Construction begins on Whitesands flood protection project in Dumfries
Major infrastructure investment aims to reduce flood risk and enhance River Nith waterfront
Last updated 2nd Jul 2026
Dumfries and Galloway Council has commenced the Whitesands Flood Protection Project at Greensands.
The initiative aims to reduce flood risk to homes, businesses, and key infrastructure in Dumfries town centre, responding to the area's long history of flooding.
Key figures from the project’s delivery partners, including contractor McLaughlin & Harvey and project management partners Turner & Townsend, attended the start of construction alongside council members.
Infrastructure and Environmental Focus
In addition to flood protection, the project will deliver improvements to the River Nith waterfront with enhanced public spaces and improved connectivity.
It aims to provide a more accessible riverside environment for residents, businesses, and visitors.
The design reflects Dumfries's character and historic setting, featuring modern public realm amenities.
Sustainability is central to the project with strategies to reduce carbon impact, reuse materials, and enhance biodiversity along the river corridor.
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The initiative supports wider environmental and regeneration efforts in the town centre.
Council Leader Stephen Thompson highlighted the importance of the project.
"Marking the start of construction at Greensands is a significant milestone for the Whitesands Project.
"This scheme represents a major investment in the future of Dumfries, helping to protect homes and businesses while also enhancing the town centre as a place to live, work and visit.
"We recognise that projects of this scale bring disruption, and we are committed to working closely with our communities as the work progresses."
Phased Construction
The project will be delivered in five phases, starting with work at Greensands.
The council plans the phasing to ensure safe construction with minimal disruption, maintaining close engagement with locals and stakeholders throughout.
Council Leader Stephen Thompson said the start of construction is a milestone for Dumfries, noting the project's dual goals of protection and enhancement of the town centre.
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Seamus Devlin, Managing Director of McLaughlin & Harvey Ltd, highlighted their commitment to delivering the scheme collaboratively and ahead of schedule.
"Being awarded this contract is a real testament to the civil engineering expertise that we've built in delivering complex flood protection scheme projects across the UK.
"We are committed to working with Dumfries and Galloway Council and all local stakeholders to deliver this scheme in a collaborative way ahead of programme."
The Whitesands area is set for further development stages over the coming years.
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