Work begins on £7.8million activity centre plans for former Dumfries and Galloway primary school

**Work Commences on £7.8 Million Transformation of Former Dumfries and Galloway Primary School**

Building activity has officially started on a £7.8 million revitalization project in Dalbeattie, Dumfries and Galloway. The former primary school in the town is soon to become Dalbeattie Rocks and Wheels, an exciting outdoor activity centre set to include climbing walls, a hostel, a pump track, and community rooms. The Dalbeattie Community Initiative has been diligently working on this venture for several years and has successfully acquired ownership of the building through the council’s community asset transfer process.

It is estimated that the construction work will span over a period slightly exceeding a year. Once operational, the proceeds generated by the centre will be reinvested into the local community. Ashleigh Limited has been appointed as the main contractors for the project, with specialised professionals engaged for the development of the new pump track and bouldering facilities.

Ian Blake, the chair of the council’s economy and infrastructure committee and a local councillor, emphasised that the project has been shaped by input from the local community, many of whom have historical ties to the school. The school has been a pivotal landmark in the town for well over a century, making it poignant that the new life being breathed into this iconic granite structure focuses on continued public access, use, and enjoyment of the forthcoming facilities.

Funding for the project is being provided through various sources, including £5.2 million from the UK Government’s Levelling Up Fund. Additional financial support is coming from the Scottish Government Place Based Investment Programme, the National Lottery, Dumfries and Galloway Council, South of Scotland Enterprise, Sport Scotland, and the Holywood Trust. Councillor Jackie McCamon, the vice committee chair, highlighted the anticipated positive impacts of the Rocks and Wheels project, which is expected to boost tourism, spur economic growth, and provide health and wellbeing benefits to the local community once operational.

In conclusion, the transformation of the former primary school in Dalbeattie into Dalbeattie Rocks and Wheels represents a significant milestone in the efforts to revitalize the local community. By repurposing the historic building into a modern outdoor activity centre, the project not only preserves the town’s heritage but also paves the way for future economic and social development in the region.