A FIVE-figure sum of income has slipped through net for Dumfries Common Good Fund because two town centre properties have been lying empty for years.
A financial report has revealed that two shops owned by Dumfries Common Good – at 5 and 10 Midsteeple – have been void and been marked for re-let for the last three years.
Meanwhile, another shop at 1 Midsteeple has generated a rental income of £6912 for the common good purse in that same period.
The finances were highlighted in an assets report due to be tabled at the council’s Dumfries Common Good Fund sub committee next Wednesday.
The report by Colin Freeman, the council’s principal estates and asset management officer, states: “The Dumfries Common Good portfolio currently has three properties where rents are received to the Common Good Fund from tenants. The portfolio also has two properties currently vacant and available for letting out.
“Any property that is to be let out is generally marketed at a value which is consistent with the current market value for other similar commercial properties in the area.
“However, when setting an ‘offers around’ figure officers will seek guidance from members as to the desired level of rental to be received.”
The report also confirmed that the Dumfries Common Good Fund pulled in £19,517.34 in rental income last year.
Over the last three financial years, the total income generated was £52,185.34. This includes £35,000 in rental income for the Robert Burns Centre and nearly £11,000 generated for fairs held at the Whitesands during that period.
