Dumfries and Galloway Council has awarded the main construction contract for the Whitesands project to McLaughlin & Harvey, following a competitive two‑stage procurement that included an early contractor involvement phase launched in 2025 to refine the delivery approach.

The contract is valued at £45.44 million and the construction programme is expected to run for 43 months. Works will be delivered in carefully managed phases, with proposed start dates and stage details to be confirmed in the coming weeks once final preparations are complete and required consents are in place.

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In December 2025, Full Council approved the Full Business Case for the project, securing funding for the overall £68.6 million scheme. As part of that decision, councillors committed £13.7 million — equivalent to 20% of the total cost — providing the financial certainty to move from planning and design into contracting and construction.

The Whitesands project will provide long‑term flood protection for Dumfries town centre from the River Nith while revitalising the riverside. Public realm improvements are planned along the river corridor from Greensands, through Whitesands and on to Dock Park, creating a safer, more attractive environment for residents, businesses and visitors.

Lisa Hawkin, Executive Director of Economy and Infrastructure at Dumfries and Galloway Council, said: "Agreeing the contract marks the completion of the procurement stage for the main works. The council will continue preparations for delivery, including ongoing communication and engagement with residents, businesses and stakeholders as further information becomes available."

Further updates on phasing, timescales and site management will be shared via the project blog as delivery progresses.