Rethink needed on flood barrier
Well done to John Dowson and all the objectors' team at the Whitesands Flood Prevention Scheme Inquiry, underway at the Crichton, on putting forward such a strong case for the current wasteful plans to be dropped.
Despite not having the resources of the local authority behind them, they have called for cross-examined expert witnesses to highlight the genuine community concern about the negative impact this costly project will have on the town for generations.
The loss of such iconic views of the River Nith, a reduction in vital parking spaces and a resulting drop in footfall at near-by shops, could negate current ongoing efforts to revitalise the town centre.
Technical issues, flooding, climate change and the impact of the proposed bund on tourism, parking and businesses are all being covered.
I was pleased there was also discussion about the decision-making process employed by the council, how the plans were communicated to the public and what steps were taken to assess local opinion.
I hope lessons are learned through the Inquiry, held in front of a Scottish Government Reporter, and that wise counsel prevails when a decision on this massively expensive project's future is reached.
Webcam video coverage of the proceedings has a growing number of local followers, perhaps illustrating the level of interest in the issue. The web address is https://dpea.public-i.tv/core/portal/webcast_interactive/386223
Centre action
I'm pleased to see so much focus on Dumfries town centre and on making positive improvements for the future.
Among various excellent town centre initiatives is the Dumfries Makers Market group, which proposes regular street markets to showcase high quality work by local artists, crafts people, and beverage and food producers, plus arts and entertainment.
They also plan to acquire an empty town centre property to convert into community use by providing an affordable town centre space for small local independent enterprises and possibly help them grow.
I had a very interesting meeting with Kirsten Scott and Leah Halliday of the Dumfries Makers Market, who outlined well thought out plans.
Design stars
I was delighted to see the outstanding entries for my schools' Christmas Card Competition, which was open to primary five pupils across the constituency.
There was a tremendous response with 580 entries from 25 schools and my wife Ann faced a daunting choice in picking winners from such an imaginative selection.
We decided to add four runners-up, in addition to the overall winner who receives a £100 Amazon gift voucher. The runners-up will each get a £25 Amazon gift voucher.
I would like to thank the pupils who took part and congratulate them all on outstanding work. The winners will be announced soon.
