PLANS for a multi-million pound redevelopment of Annan Harbour are creating interest at Westminster.
An ambitious blueprint for the regeneration of an historic warehouse, the adjoining Burgh Quay and an area of publicly acquired merse land have taken a step closer.
Detailed studies envisage a footbridge, weir and lagoon for kayaking and watersports with the warehouse transformed into a heritage centre with cafe, bunkhouse and training area.
A public exhibition of proposals, resulting from studies commissioned by Annan Harbour Action Group, were on show to the public today (Wednesday) at The Anglers in the town.
Dumfriesshire, Clydesdale and Tweeddale MP David Mundell supports a bid for the project to receive a game-changing financial boost through the UK Government’s levelling up funds to take the project forward swiftly.
And on a visit to Annan Harbour this week, he confirmed he planned to highlight the project directly with Chancellor Rishi Sunak.
Mr Mundell was given updates on the project by Alan Thomson, Annan Harbour facilities manager, who was joined by Dumfries and Galloway Council’s economic development officer Kimberley Watkin; environment and strategic projects manager Simon Fieldhouse and ward officer Jaime Nicholson.
The former Scottish Secretary, who helped shape the Borderlands Growth Initiative, 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.”
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