Members of the council’s Economy and Infrastructure Committee will be provided with an update on the ongoing efforts to address challenges at the former Interfloor Factory site in Heathhall, Dumfries.
Members are set to consider new actions, including commissioning site investigations and exploring potential opportunities through the Ownerless Property Transfer Scheme (OPTS) to help attract interest from developers.
At the upcoming Economy and Infrastructure Committee meeting on 4 February, members will be asked to note progress on stakeholder engagement and efforts to identify a long-term regeneration solution for the site while considering if they wish to submit an expression of interest to the Kings and Lords Treasures Remembrancer (KLTR) under the OPTS. This facilitates the transfer of ownerless properties to local authorities or community groups for regeneration purposes.
The former Interfloor Factory, a Category B listed building, has a rich history dating back to the 1910s when it was constructed as Britain’s first ferro-concrete car factory. During World War II, it played a vital role in aircraft engine manufacturing. Today, the site includes a derelict factory building and remnants of industrial use.
Following the dissolution of the previous owner, DCR DG1 Limited, the site is now considered as an ownerless property. This has presented an opportunity for the council and partners to explore new avenues for regeneration.
The site is identified in the Local Development Plan (LDP) for mixed-use development, including residential, commercial, and leisure opportunities. The recently published Dumfries Urban Capacity Study includes a high-level layout developed to demonstrate capacity, based on both retention of the building frontage, and full demolition. The document has been shared with potential developers and early interest is being followed up by council officers.
Ian Blake, Chair of the Economy and Infrastructure Committee said: “Council officers are actively engaging with the Scottish Government, Historic Environment Scotland (HES), and potential developers to secure funding and support. It is vital that we maintain the support of all those with an interest in the site as we work to find a viable solution that recognises the historical significance of the area while supporting any future development.”
The OPTS offers a pathway for public bodies to consider ownership of the site, with potential financial and technical support for redevelopment. If members agree to submit an expression of interest, further work will be undertaken to develop a comprehensive application as part of the council’s facilitating role.
Vice chair of Economy and Infrastructure Committee, Jackie McCamon, said: “It is good to see the progress that is being made to address this building that is of national significance. It is vital that the momentum that has been gained continues and I look forward to seeing proposals develop.”
You can read the full committee report here: https://dumfriesgalloway.moderngov.co.uk/ieListDocuments.aspx?CId=624&MId=6201
A further report will be brought back to the next meeting of Economy and Infrastructure Committee with additional detail on both the KLTR and ongoing engagement aimed at finding a development partner to work with the council to turn the site into a positive location for the community.
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