A number of projects across Stranraer and Dalbeattie are to be supported with UK government Levelling-Up funding of £17.7 million.

Dumfries and Galloway Council will use the funding to develop a new water sports hub in Stranraer to provide a purpose-built water sports activity centre for the local community and tourists to enjoy.  The Hub will offer much needed events, training, community activity and regatta facilities. Included in the new facility will be: 

• bespoke water sports activity centre with 'wet' and 'dry' classroom spaces

• community meeting / events / social spaces

• instructor platform to facilitate training

• off-shore bathing stations


• racing lanes to facilitate training and events

• an 'active beach' area

• boat storage space with boat repair workshop

The project will support the regeneration of Stranraer and its waterfront.

In Stranraer, the derelict George site is to be transformed into a new multi-purpose hub, that will include: a bouldering facility; a 30-bed bunk house; art studios and exhibition space; and key space for makers and creatives.

The new space will be used to deliver a variety of programmes for the local community and visitors in support of the regeneration of Stranraer and its waterfront.

The former Dalbeattie Primary school will also be transformed into a community-led activity centre that will include a climbing wall, bouldering facility, a pump track, affordable bunkhouse, accommodation for visitors, groups and educational use.

The centre aims to unlock the economic potential held within the 7 Stanes Dalbeattie mountain biking trail. It will provide employment, skills development opportunities, and a key visitor attraction for the town.

The group of projects will bring many benefits to the two towns, by:

• bringing redundant buildings back into use

• increasing visitor numbers

• bringing more employment opportunities

• Increasing opportunities to improve health and wellbeing through physical activity.