The project to regenerate Stranraer’s waterfront will take between 15 and 20 years to complete, according to new revelations.

The Wigstown Area Committee was told at a public meeting on Wednesday that the planning policy would need to be fully developed.

Jason Syers, strategic projects manager for Dumfries and Galloway, told the meeting that the plan undertaken by the council in 2010 was almost completed.

He said: "Rarely do you get to start a project like this with such a fantastic townscape. Because of this – and to ensure that we can encourage the very best level of investment – we must make sure that planning policy is developed which keeps development of the waterfront in scale with what is already in the town."

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Mr Syers told the meeting the meeting the council intended to have £4m to complete the project.

Councillor Iain Dick agreed the development of the West Pier should be a priority. He acknowledged the £8m investment by Scottish Water in the area.

But Douglas McMillan, proprietor of the North West Castle Hotel, warned: "In order that the people of Stranraer have confidence in the wider regeneration project, it’s essen­tial that we see some action on more immediate issues like better signage."

On Monday, October 1, Councillor Roberta Ruckfield is due to cut the tape at the new Sail West shore block at its official opening.

The will mark one of the first stages of the redevelopment and will provide a new harbour-master’s offices along with toilets, a kitchen and utility room for marina users.

(IT)