Thousands took part in council budget survey

THOUSANDS of angry residents expressed their opposition to unpopular proposed service cuts and building closures as part of Dumfries and Galloway’s Council’s budget plans for 2026/27.

An online council survey asking for feedback garnered nearly 3000 responses, while six petitions with more than 6000 signatures in total were also passed onto the local authority, writes Marc McLean.

Communities in places including Annan, Castle Douglas, Sanquhar, Kirkconnel and Kelloholm joined forces to fight against controversial cost-cutting options put forward by council officers.

Petitions received so far were from Annan Town Band on the potential removal of instrumental music instruction service – 2838 signatures; Castle Douglas Community Council on the potential closure of Castle Douglas Swimming Pool – 1504 signatures; two on the possible closure of Sanquhar Tolbooth Museum – 659 signatures; Kirkconnel and Kelloholm Community Council to save Hillview Leisure Centre – 800 signatures; and an individual defending the centre – 566 signatures.

The strength of feeling has been acknowledged by officials in a report, which will be presented at next week’s enabling and customer services committee.

It states: “Officers are aware there may be other petitions that continue to operate but these have not been submitted to date."

This will help elected members formulate their own financial plans – and spend and cut wisely in 2026/27.

Cuts of about £34 million will have to be made over the next three years and final decisions on services and savings options will be made at a meeting on February 26.