A project that has invested nearly £4 million in the Stewartry is entering its final year.
The Galloway Glens Landscape Partnership Scheme has been connecting people in the Ken/Dee valley with their heritage, while boosting the local economy and supporting communities, through a variety of projects.
The programme was created by the council’s environment team and is funded by a range of partners, with the National Lottery Heritage Fund providing £2.7 million.
The fund’s Scotland director Caroline Clark said: “The Galloway Glens team have demonstrated huge commitment, enthusiasm and imagination and have undoubtedly been successful in transferring that to action through their engagement in local communities.
“There has been a real drive to empower local people to take control of activities, events and projects to ensure they are sustainable for the long term. This milestone might mark the final year of the Galloway Glens Scheme but I am sure it is only the starting point for its lasting legacy in Dumfries and Galloway.”
Projects that have been supported so far include visitor facilities, footpaths and intern positions, with three-quarters of the money spent so far going to businesses based in Dumfries and Galloway.
Partnership board chairman Ted Leeming said: “I am genuinely amazed at the results that the team have achieved with the various interest and community groups they have been working with.
“Working in partnership, listening to all voices and a hands-on approach have all been key to the various successes that have been achieved.
“I look forward to the final year, completing the remaining projects and now also how to deliver a lasting legacy for the community.
“As always, if you have any ideas, please give us a call.”
Team leader McNabb Laurie said: “With us now entering our last year, it is tempting to pause and take stock of work supported through the scheme but we have so much still to do.
“Final year’s plans include footpaths, visitor attractions, events and a final burst of intern positions.
“Some of the really good stuff we have been supporting is only now ready to be celebrated.
“As ever, we are so grateful to everyone involved, particularly our main funder National Lottery Heritage Fund and partners including Dumfries and Galloway Council’s environment team, Drax – the owners of the Galloway Hydro Scheme – and the Galloway and Southern Ayrshire UNESCO Biosphere.”
