Dumfries’ Whitesands flood protection scheme costs reach £68m

The costs of a project to protect a flood-prone part of Dumfries have risen to £68.6m.

The last estimated price of the Whitesands scheme in 2023 stood at a little over half that figure – £37.5m.

A report to councillors said a council investment of £13.7m could unlock nearly £55m in Scottish government funding.

However, if the council decides not to fund the project when it meets on 11 December it will not be able to access the government support and the scheme will not proceed.

To date £5m has been allocated to the project by the council and it is seeking approval of a further £8.7m when it meets next month.

The council said it could revitalise the Greensands, Whitesands and Dock Park areas of Dumfries.

It has blamed the increase in estimated cost on inflation and changes to the project design.

Opponents have argued the cost is too high and have concerns over the loss of parking and visual impact.

It will now be up to councillors to decide whether it can move forward at full council.

Council convener Katie Hagmann said: “The decision that will be made at our meeting on 11 December is crucial.

“It will determine whether the project proceeds to the next stage, subject to funding and necessary consents and it will provide certainty to the community.”

If the spending is approved, construction could begin in spring next year and be completed by 2029.