Construction has officially commenced on the Dumfries Zero Waste Park (Dumfries ZWP), marking a significant milestone in Dumfries and Galloway Council's commitment to its Waste, Recycling and Reuse Strategy 2023–2030.

The £11.197m investment, drawn from the Council's approved 10-year Capital Investment Strategy, will deliver vital infrastructure aimed at fostering a greener future for the region. The project is anticipated to be completed by the end of September 2026.

Key components of the Dumfries ZWP include a brand-new, modern Household Waste Recycling Centre (HWRC) at Locharmoss, alongside the transformation of the refinements hall at the EcoDeco MBT Facility into a dry recyclates bulking facility. These upgrades are designed to provide residents with an enhanced recycling experience and will be central to Dumfries and Galloway's ambitious targets to increase recycling rates, optimise waste processing, and contribute to Scotland's wider circular economy objectives.

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The strategy, approved by the Council's Communities Committee on 3rd October 2023, is built around five core themes: Waste Prevention, Reuse and Recycling; optimising kerbside collections; improving HWRC experience and efficiency; optimising residual waste processing; and maximising efficiency. The Dumfries ZWP is a crucial element in achieving these goals.

Councillor Ian Blake, Chair of the council's Economy and Infrastructure Committee, stated: "The start of construction on the Dumfries Zero Waste Park is a clear demonstration of our council's commitment to delivering a cleaner, greener future for our communities. This modern facility will not only enhance recycling opportunities for residents but will also ensure we meet our obligations under the Scottish Government's Circular Economy ambitions."

Councillor Jackie McCamon, Vice-Chair of the committee, added: "Our investment in the Dumfries Zero Waste Park reflects a long-term vision for a more sustainable Dumfries and Galloway. We are providing the facilities and services that residents expect, while also supporting our local economy and improving the environment for generations to come."

The new split-level Locharmoss HWRC will offer improved access, better customer service, and a safer, more efficient site layout, all designed to make recycling easier and more intuitive for users. The new bulking facility is also expected to bring significant operational efficiencies, enabling the council to manage and transfer materials more effectively without reliance on the private sector.