A new era is set to begin in Dumfries with the opening of The Standard, a £7.3 million development on the town’s High Street. The project, supported by the Scottish Government, South of Scotland Enterprise, Dumfries and Galloway Council, and the Holywood Trust, has been in the works for over two years and is a significant milestone for the Midsteeple Quarter. The seven flats in the community-owned building are the first homes on the High Street in recent memory, alongside spaces for community activities, enterprise hot-desking, meetings, exhibitions, and events.
Robert Richmond, chairman of the Midsteeple Quarter Community Benefit Society, expressed excitement about the future impact of The Standard on the town centre, emphasizing the blend of quality housing with spaces that foster entrepreneurship. The project, led by main contractors RH Irving Construction, involved the transformation of a derelict building that was once home to the Dumfries and Galloway Standard newspaper.
Named in tribute to The Standard, the development features nods to its printing heritage, such as lettering in the brickwork and a unique entrance on Standard Close. The building has been designed with sustainability in mind, incorporating energy-efficient measures like solar panels and an air-source heat pump. Notably, The Standard is a car-free development, prioritizing environmental considerations.
With an official opening planned in the coming months, the Midsteeple Quarter community is looking forward to welcoming residents and visitors to the transformed space. The project’s emphasis on community ownership and decision-making reflects a larger vision of revitalizing Dumfries town centre and creating a vibrant living environment.
Looking ahead, Midsteeple Quarter directors are already considering future phases of development for other buildings they own along the High Street. The overarching goal is to continue breathing new life into the area, meeting the demand for housing while enriching the community with dynamic, sustainable spaces for various activities.
In conclusion, The Standard’s inauguration marks a significant step towards revitalizing Dumfries town centre, blending heritage with sustainability and community ownership. The project’s successful completion sets the stage for further redevelopment initiatives that aim to transform the town into a thriving hub for residents, businesses, and visitors alike.