Work on a 10-week project to transform the riverside gateway in Annan commenced earlier this week and further details on the scheme have been released.

The regeneration works, costing around £110,000, will improve the Western entrance to the town and will see two new sandstone gateways installed, pavements on the bridge widened and new lighting on the bridge. Floodlighting at the Town Hall will also be installed.

The work is just one of the first projects to emerge from the Annan regeneration masterplan.

Other improvements which the Annan Regeneration Steering group have suggested include:

• Bringing derelict and unused buildings back into use.

• Investigate cycling and walking routes both in the town and linking Annan with other parts of the region. The level of car parking in the town will also be assessed.

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• The high street should be de-cluttered to improve public space.

• Develop leisure projects for Annan Harbour.

• Gateway project to improve the routes into the town.

• West end developments around Port Street.

• A community hub for Annan.

Chair of the Annan Regeneration Steering Group, Sean Marshall said: "I am delighted this project to improve the western approach to the town is underway. We now need to keep the momentum going and work with our partners to revitalise the town.

"With this in mind, the steering group has identified other key areas for improvement which we hope to progress. There will be a public exhibition in the town in the near future where we hope to outline these goals."

Councillor Colin Smyth, Chair of the Council's Economy, Environment and Infrastructure Committee added: "This project is a good example of what the Council, community and partners can achieve when they are dedicated to the task.

"Despite the economic downturn, there is renewed determination throughout our region to improve our towns and encourage a sense of pride amongst locals."

It is understood the next project to be implemented will improve the 'gateway' route from the train station into the town.

(JP/MH)