This is one of the the first projects to be taken forward from the Annan regeneration masterplan and is costing around £110,000. The Annan Regeneration Steering group has not only championed this project but at a recent meeting outlined several other improvements which they would like to take forward to improve the town:

-Bringing derelict and unused buildings back into use
-Investigate cycling and walking routes both in the town and linking Annan with other parts of the region. The level of car parking in the town will also be assessed.
-The high street should be de-cluttered to improve public space
-Develop leisure projects for Annan Harbour
-Gateway project to improve the routes into the town
-West end developments around Port Street
-Community hub for Annan

The Annan Regeneration Steering Group includes local business people, Friends of Annan Museum, Community Council, Annan Athletic as well as local councillors

Chair of the Annan Regeneration Steering Group, Sean Marshall said, “I am delighted this project to improve the western approach to the town is underway. We now need to keep the momentum going and work with our partners to revitalise the town. With this in mind, the steering group has identified other key areas for improvement which we hope to progress. There will be a public exhibition in the town in the near future where we hope to outline these goals.

Chapelcross Site Director, John Grierson said, “One of the main elements of the Beyond Chapelcross Project is to provide additional resources to help develop and deliver projects identified within the Gretna, Annan and Lockerbie Masterplans. The Annan Riverside Gateway Project is an early example of project delivery within the Annan Masterplan and I look forward to many other projects being completed in the forthcoming years that will mitigate the impact on the local economy from the decommissioning of Chapelcross.”

Councillor Colin Smyth, Chair of the Council’s Economy, Environment and Infrastructure Committee said
“This project is a good example of what the Council, community and partners can achieve when they are dedicated to the task. Despite the economic downturn, there is renewed determination throughout our region to improve our towns and encourage a sense of pride amongst locals.

The next project to be implemented will improve the ‘gateway’ route from the train station into town.