Dumfries Arts Project Talks Put On Hold

A debate over whether to intervene to help secure a £2m arts project in Dumfries has been put on hold, the BBC has reported.

The Stove building, formerly a high street store, was converted to aid regeneration within the town.

Last month, the local authority called for a full business case on the project before it would make a decision, but this week a paper was withdrawn before Dumfries and Galloway Council has the opportunity to discuss it.


The site is owned by Dumfries and Galloway Chamber of Commerce and run by a voluntary arts group. The first phase of the development is complete however the chamber has said it cannot commit further funds for the second phase.

As a result, Councillors have been asked to step in, but they want more information on the project.

It is understood the remaining works – which would ensure the building is fully accessible – has a total cost of £242,000.

It has been proposed that ownership of the property be transferred to the local authority at no cost, and then leased to the Stove for 25 years. As part of the agreement, the Council would commit £82,000 towards completing the conversion work.

The remaining funds would come from the Scottish Government and the Stove group.

(JP/CD)