Roads works planned to prep for flood protection scheme

A SIX figure investment in roads improvements is set to be fast-tracked to pave the way for the Whitesands Flood Protection Scheme in Dumfries.

Councillors will next week be asked to rubber-stamp taking £628,610 from money that is set aside for 2027/28 in Dumfries and Galloway Council’s road improvement fund.

Freeing up the funds early would allow for major roadworks to be carried out in Dumfries around the Whitesands location.

A report on the matter explains that a detailed analysis was carried out to identify what will be required in advance of the construction phases of the Whitesands scheme.

Officials say they now have ‘enhanced intelligence’ on the current condition of the main strategic routes within Dumfries, many of which will experience increased traffic loading, diversion activity, and operational pressure as construction progresses.

So, they want to “proactively strengthen and improve key sections” to ensure resilience.

The works are described as ‘essential’ and it’s said they will significantly reduce the risk of unplanned failures, associated disruption, and impacts on journey times for both the public and the construction programme.

And it will ensure ‘that the strategic road network in Dumfries remains safe, serviceable, and capable of supporting the additional operational demands placed upon it’.

The Whitesands scheme aims to deliver a permanent 1-in-75-year flood protection standard for Dumfries, safeguarding homes, businesses and key infrastructure.

There will be 1.3 kilometres of engineering flood defences, including raised walkways, access openings, floodgates, and glass panelling.

It will stretch from the Greensands to Dock Park and will also provide protection to properties at Welldale.

The aim is to have it completed by 2029.