Communities across Dumfries and Galloway are set to benefit from significant new investment as part of the Scottish Government’s Strengthening Communities Programme, with over £245,000 allocated to seven local regeneration projects.
Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes has confirmed that more than £2.5 million will be distributed in 2025-26 to continue supporting 62 organisations and begin work with a further 15, helping them to tackle local challenges, create opportunities, and build sustainable futures.
In Dumfries and Galloway, the funding will support a wide range of initiatives:
- Kirkcudbright Development Trust – £32,700
- Lockerbie Old School – £30,057
- SHAX, Dumfries – £49,360
- The Furniture Project, Stranraer – £37,810
- Kirkcolm Community Trust – £19,000
- Langholm Initiative Community Development Trust – £42,192
- Moffat Town Hall Trust – £32,225
The funding will address various challenges across Scotland’s communities such as employability, population retention, a need for housing, tourism and heritage initiatives, and the expansion and development of community food hubs.
Ms Forbes said: “Local communities are best placed to address their own needs, identify improvements in their areas, and realise their own economic potential. That is why community-led regeneration is a key priority for the Scottish Government.
“From arts and culture projects, training and employment schemes, to bringing new life to disused buildings, hundreds of places across the country are already seeing positive change.”
The Strengthening Communities Programme, now in its 13th year, has supported hundreds of local organisations to deliver economic, social, and environmental benefits.