Significant progress has been achieved on major infrastructure and regeneration initiatives across Dumfries and Galloway, according to the latest update on the council's Capital Investment Programme.

During its meeting on 9 June, the council's Economy and Infrastructure Committee reviewed the annual outturn report detailing investment delivery for 2025/26 and the progress of key developments designed to support local services, communities, and the economy.

The report highlights that £74.005 million was spent across the capital programme during 2025/26, marking 93.1% of the allocated budget. Members noted that this constitutes the largest capital programme the council has ever undertaken, substantially exceeding historical investment levels. Councillors agreed to recommend that £9.525 million in funding be carried forward into the 2026/27 financial year to maintain momentum on active projects. Furthermore, members noted a draft improvement plan aimed at enhancing how capital projects are planned, managed, and executed in the future.

The update details progress across various major projects delivering community benefits. At Dumfries High School, the newly constructed building has been officially handed over to the council by the contractor, and pupils have successfully relocated to the modern education facility.

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Work is also moving forward on key infrastructure and regeneration schemes:

• The Whitesands Flood Protection Scheme, where on-site construction works have commenced to provide long-term protection for Dumfries town centre while improving the riverside environment.

• The new Kirkcudbright Bridge project, where specimen designs have been generated alongside outline design work for potential connections to the local road network. Community Conversations have been conducted in Kirkcudbright to showcase these designs and gather public feedback.

• The Annan Harbour regeneration project, where building works are currently underway to boost tourism and economic growth.

Additional capital funding has supported leisure and community facilities, including the on-budget completion of new indoor tennis courts at King George V in Dumfries. Progress has also been recorded in the development of active travel infrastructure, transport hubs, and electric vehicle charging points across the region.

The report acknowledges continuous efforts to mitigate specific project challenges, such as overseeing programme delivery, responding to external factors like supply chain constraints, and optimising available financial resources. In addition, committee members agreed to accept an extra £100,000 in Scottish Government funding for the Lockerbie Enterprise and Wellbeing Hub, assisting the project as it moves toward completion in 2026/27.

Chair of the Economy and Infrastructure Committee, Councillor Andy Ferguson, said: "This report highlights the scale of investment being delivered across Dumfries and Galloway and the strong progress being made despite the challenges of such an ambitious programme. These recommendations will support continued delivery and ensure that projects remain on track as we move through the next financial year.

"Importantly, this work is already delivering real benefits for our communities – from improved infrastructure and facilities to supporting jobs, growth and long-term resilience across the region."

Vice-Chair, Councillor Tony Berretti, added: "The range of projects underway demonstrates how investment is being used to support both local communities and the wider economy. It is encouraging to see progress across key developments, alongside a clear focus on strengthening how projects are delivered.

"By continuing to invest in our infrastructure and public spaces, we are helping to create opportunities, improve services and support sustainable growth for the future."