Standard opening is start of a ‘new era’ in Dumfries

A £7.3 million investment has sparked a fresh beginning in Dumfries as the town’s Midsteeple Quarter on the High Street enters a “new era,” reports the Daily Record. The newly refurbished community-owned building, The Standard, has welcomed its first residents into seven newly developed flats, marking a significant milestone for the Dumfries town centre. Supported by various organisations including the Scottish Government, South of Scotland Enterprise, Dumfries and Galloway Council, and the Holywood Trust, the project has been completed in just over two years.

Robert Richmond, chairman of the Midsteeple Quarter Community Benefit Society, expressed his excitement for the future of the town centre, stating, “This is a community-owned building unlike any other in Dumfries. We are incredibly excited about what the future holds.” The revitalised building not only offers quality homes but also features spaces to foster entrepreneurship, such as hot-desking areas, meeting rooms, and exhibition spaces, ready for public use.

Led by main contractors RH Irving Construction, the transformation of the former Baker’s Oven building at 139 High Street pays tribute to the town’s history, particularly that of the former home of the Dumfries and Galloway Standard newspaper. The building, named The Standard, incorporates elements of its printing past, including lettering in the brickwork and a striking entrance on Standard Close.

Mark Moodycliffe, managing director of RH Irving Construction, highlighted the pride in completing the project and emphasised the local economic benefits brought by the project. The Midsteeple Quarter team is now focusing on the next phases of redevelopment, including other buildings they own along the High Street.

The apartments at The Standard have been designed with environmental sustainability in mind, featuring energy-efficient measures such as solar panels and an air-source heat pump. With a car-free design, the development aims to reduce its carbon footprint and provide a modern housing solution for the community.

Looking ahead, The Standard plans to open its doors for an official unveiling in the coming months, allowing both Midsteeple Quarter members and the wider community to explore the transformed space. The project represents a significant step towards rejuvenating the Dumfries town centre, creating a vibrant and inclusive hub for residents, entrepreneurs, and visitors alike.

In summary, the rejuvenation of The Standard in Dumfries signifies a positive transformation for the town’s High Street, offering a blend of modern living spaces and commercial opportunities to enhance the community spirit and economic vitality of the area. The project’s commitment to sustainability and local engagement sets a promising example for future urban developments in the region.