Architects appointed for major Midsteeple Quarter project

WORK has started to identify options for the long-term regeneration of three community-owned buildings in the middle of Dumfries.

The Midsteeple Quarter is beginning the next phase of its mission to breathe new life into the high street.

And they have commissioned Dumfries architecture firm Robert Potter and Partners to carry out a feasibility study on the transformation of 111 High Street (Flourish), 113-115 High Street (The Smithy) and 117-119 High Street (The Press/Printworks).

It is expected to be completed by the autumn and will comprise

two different outline design scheme options.

Community engagement events will be held over the summer to help inform the plans and determine which designs get taken forward.

Midsteeple Quarter executive director Tim Cowen said: “It’s great to be turning our attention to the next phase of our work and what we could achieve with three of our other community owned buildings.

“This feasibility study will not only inform our long term thinking and plans, but will also help inform our priorities for carrying out short and medium-term repairs for these buildings, helping to keep them in productive use throughout the next phase of our work.”

Architect Douglas Bodell, above, said: “Midsteeple Quarter represents the type of project that aligns profoundly with our identity, values and long-standing commitment to Dumfries.

“These buildings are not abstract architectural challenges to us, they are part of the streets we walk every day, part of the townscape we have helped shape for decades and part of the community we proudly serve.

“This is a meaningful opportunity for us to contribute directly to the future of our own town centre and to support a community-led vision for renewal.”