Construction is now underway on the Whitesands Flood Protection Project in Dumfries, with a groundbreaking ceremony marking the official start of works at Greensands.

Representatives from McLaughlin & Harvey joined Dumfries and Galloway Council, Turner & Townsend and Jacobs to celebrate the milestone as the project moves from planning into construction.

As principal contractor, McLaughlin & Harvey will deliver this landmark flood protection scheme, which will help safeguard homes, businesses and key infrastructure in Dumfries town centre while creating a more resilient and attractive riverside environment for future generations.

The project has been developed in response to the area’s long history of flooding and will not only reduce flood risk but also enhance the River Nith waterfront through improved public spaces, better connectivity and high-quality public realm improvements. Sustainability is embedded throughout the scheme, with measures to reduce carbon emissions, maximise material reuse and enhance biodiversity.

The overall project will be delivered in five phases, with construction beginning at Greensands. Careful planning and close collaboration with Dumfries and Galloway Council and local stakeholders will help minimise disruption throughout delivery.

Marking the start of construction at Greensands is a significant milestone for the Whitesands Project. This scheme represents a major investment in the future of Dumfries, helping to protect homes and businesses while also enhancing the town centre as a place to live, work and visit. We recognise that projects of this scale bring disruption, and we are committed to working closely with our communities as the work progresses.

Stephen Thompson, Council Leader
McLaughlin & Harvey

Being awarded this contract is a real testament to the civil engineering expertise that we’ve built in delivering complex flood protection scheme projects across the UK. We are committed to working with Dumfries and Galloway Council and all local stakeholders to deliver this scheme in a collaborative way ahead of programme.

Seamus Devlin, Managing Director
McLaughlin & Harvey