At Planning, Environment and Infrastructure Committee in November 2014, Dumfries and Galloway Councillors agreed £1.1 million to fund a project to transform Central Avenue in Gretna. A contractor has now been appointed so that work can commence on this project from January 2016, with a completion date expected towards the end of the year.
The Gretna Masterplan, which was adopted following extensive consultation in 2008, identified the need to define the area around Central Avenue and Kirtle Place as the town centre. This view was echoed by the Gretna Regeneration Steering Group which is made up of representatives of Gretna Green and Springfield Community Council and Gretna and Rigg Community Council plus local business representatives and local Councillors.
Central Avenue is recognised as the commercial heart of Gretna and a major destination for weddings and partnership ceremonies. This is an exciting scheme which will make the centre of Gretna more attractive and pleasant for businesses, residents, and visitors alike. The original design of Gretna was influenced by the principles of the Garden City movement early last century and this scheme seeks to capture the spirit of this by including tree planting and landscaping which will include hedge planting, grass and the enhancement of community spaces.
Following an extensive procurement process Dumfries and Galloway Council have now appointed P1 Solutions Ltd as the main contractor and the project will be managed by Ironside Farrer Ltd.
A meeting is currently being arranged for early January for the nearby businesses and residents to come and view the plans, programme of work and discuss the project with the Contractor, Project Manager and the Council.
Councillor Craig Peacock, Vice Chair of the Economy, Environment and Infrastructure Committee said: “The vision for this project is to revitalise this central space to give it a ‘garden village’ feel. Quality materials will be used throughout creating a much more pleasant area. I am delighted this ambitious regeneration project has been given the go ahead, when complete, it will physically link several green spaces and be a far more attractive place for locals and visitors to spend time. I also believe that through this investment in the infrastructure the local economy will prosper and businesses in the vicinity will benefit through increased footfall as a result of the revitalisation.”
“This project has taken a long time to come to fruition and I understand that some people will be inconvenienced while the work is taking place, but I think the end product of a revitalised, clean and pleasant High Street and surrounding area for people to enjoy will be worth it. Gretna needs investment and I am pleased the council has worked with us to get this project underway”
