Plans for multi-million pound Annan Harbour redevelopment go on display

A public exhibition of proposals for a multi-million pound redevelopment of Annan Harbour went on display in the town on Wednesday.

Detailed studies commissioned by the Annan Harbour Action Group offer an ambitious blueprint for the regeneration of an historic warehouse, the adjoining Burgh Quay, and an area of publicly acquired merse land.

Plans on display in The Anglers show a footbridge, weir and lagoon for kayaking and watersports with the warehouse transformed into a heritage centre with cafe, bunkhouse and training area.

It was also revealed that the proposals are creating interest at Westminster.

Dumfriesshire MP David Mundell is supporting a bid for the project to receive a game-changing financial boost through the UK Government’s levelling up funds.

And, on a visit to the harbour this week, he confirmed he will highlight the project directly with Chancellor Rishi Sunak.

Mr Mundell was given updates on the project by Annan Harbour facilities manager, Alan Thomson, council economic development officer Kimberley Watkin, environment and strategic projects manager Simon Fieldhouse and ward officer Jaime Nicholson.

The MP said: “The scale of this project and the fact that much of the detailed preparatory work has already been completed means the development could potentially move forward fairly quickly.

“It is an exciting blueprint which would not only turn Annan’s harbour area into a major amenity for local people but an attraction for visitors which would enhance the town’s economic prospects.

“Annan would still retain the ability to function as a working harbour to meet any future demand but would also offer so much more in terms of tourism, wildlife viewing, leisure and water sports.”