Completed Projects
Our roadmap to a successful and thriving community
Euchan Core Path
Euchan Core Path was our first Path restoration project. The popular Euchan Path had been identified as one of the pathways around the town in urgent need of an upgrade and made safer, enhancing the walking experience for locals and visitors.
Local contractors were appointed to carry out the works. JMC Contracts carried out the laying of a one metre wide hardcore base forming the path, laid drains where required, while preserving the original red brick edging. Overgrown trees were cut back and fallen wood removed and steps were constructed on the steeper sections of the path.
W. Moore Fencing Contractors erected stock proof fencing adjacent to the path as well as safety railings on the steeper sections which fall away to the Euchan Water.
Thanks to funding from Foundation Scotland (Whiteside Hill Community Fund) awarded by the Upper Nithsdale Community Trust, Sanquhar Enterprise Company was able to carry out this project for the benefit of the community and visitors alike.
Bell Crescent Playpark
Following feedback from community surveys for the Community Action Plan 2022–2026, the Bell Crescent Play Park was identified as a priority for improvement. This led to a joint £250,000 project between Sanquhar Enterprise Company (SEC) and Dumfries & Galloway Council to create a modern, inclusive, and educational play park - designed to be one of the region’s leading outdoor facilities.
In September 2024, SEC Board members Lisa Black and Norman Burn visited the local primary school to gather children’s ideas for the park. Their drawings were later compiled into a video and shared with the Council, helping shape the final design. The Council contributed £125,000, and SEC secured match funding from Community Windpower, facilitated by the Upper Nithsdale Community Trust, whose support was vital to the project’s success.
The design contract was awarded to Proludic, with work beginning in February 2025 and completed in time for the Easter holidays.
The new play park has been met with overwhelming community enthusiasm, praised for its inclusivity and the sense of joy it has brought to the area. Families from neighbouring towns now visit regularly, reaffirming Bell Crescent’s place as a flagship play space for Dumfries & Galloway.
Queensberry Garages
SEC identified three dilapidated buildings on the corner of Queensberry Square, owned by Dumfries & Galloway Council, which were in urgent need of repair and restoration. Recognising their potential, and with the valued support of the Community Asset Transfer Team, SEC completed the acquisition of the properties. With funding secured from three different sources, we were able to raise the money needed to restore the buildings and convert them into seven secure storage units.
The restoration was carried out using a blend of natural, modern, sustainable, and eco-friendly materials, ensuring the buildings were brought back to their former condition in a way that reflects both heritage and sustainability. Local contractors delivered the works, which were completed in August 2025.
We extend our sincere thanks to our funders: Community Windpower (facilitated by the Upper Nithsdale Community Trust), Whiteside Hill Windfarm (through Foundation Scotland), and Glenmuckloch Community Energy Park (facilitated by Propel).
Of the seven units, two are now used by community groups, while the remaining five have been rented to local tradespeople, businesses, and private tenants. The project has been warmly received by residents, who have praised the improvements to the townscape and the positive impact on the local community.
Bicycle Racks in Town Centre
As part of our plans to support Active Travel, 5 bicycle racks have been installed centrally within Sanquhar next to the Tollbooth.
These are also intended for cyclists visiting the town, as up to now there were no facilities for cyclists to leave their bicycles.
The new cycle racks were generously funded by SWestrans following a request for their installation by Sanquhar Enterprise Company.
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The Library,
106 High Street
The Old Library building on Sanquhar High Street had stood empty for more than eight years following the relocation of the library by Dumfries & Galloway Council. Determined to bring the space back into productive use, Sanquhar Enterprise Company (SEC) secured a five-year Right to Occupy Lease with the Council, creating an opportunity to revitalise the building for the benefit of the community.
Following a programme of renovation and conversion works, SEC staff successfully moved into their new offices at the beginning of 2025, marking an important milestone in the organisation’s growth and visibility within the town centre.
Looking ahead, SEC has ambitious plans for the building’s long-term future. The intention is to acquire the property outright through a Community Asset Transfer, with a vision to redevelop the site into an Affordable Housing project. This would not only preserve the historic presence of the Old Library but also help address local housing needs and contribute to the wider regeneration of the High Street.
River Nith – Braeheads
Circular Core Path
The Braeheads Core Path, our second Pathway Project, was identified through community surveys for the Community Action Plan 2022–2026 as being in urgent need of restoration. This 2.6km route runs along the River Nith to the west of Sanquhar and is one of the town’s most popular walking trails. Works began in January 2024, carried out by local contractor JMC, and were completed by March. The path was relocated to higher ground, widened, and resurfaced with natural stone and whin dust. Overgrown vegetation was cleared, and materials were reused along the riverbank to help reduce flood impact. A new footbridge and accessible two-way gate were installed, along with summer seating at scenic spots and native tree planting in strategic areas.
The restored pathway has been met with enthusiastic community feedback, with residents delighted to enjoy the full route once again.
This project was made possible through generous support from the Whiteside Hill Windfarm Community Fund, Upper Nithsdale Community Fund, Dumfries & Galloway Council, Community Energy Scotland, N76 Energy in Motion, and the Upper Nithsdale Walking Group.
