New project aims to tackle depopulation in Dumfries and Galloway

dailyrecord.co.uk:

A new project aims to tackle depopulation in Dumfries and Galloway. The council will spend the next year working on a comprehensive strategy to alleviate the impacts of the challenge and will speak to local communities, ensuring their diverse needs and aspirations are being met.

The work is being supported by a £90,000 grant from the Scottish Government’s Addressing Depopulation Fund, with the region’s population falling from 148,000 in 2018 to just under 146,000 in the 2023 census.

Council leader, Gail Macgregor, said: “This project is about much more than simply reversing population trends – it’s about building a brighter future for all of Dumfries and Galloway. “By understanding what makes our communities thrive and addressing the challenges head-on, we can create a region that is the natural place to live, work, visit and invest.” Key areas of the project will be improving the availability of housing, addressing the impact of second homes, boosting economic opportunities and promoting Dumfries and Galloway as an ideal destination for businesses, remote workers and individuals seeking a high quality of life.

The aim is to create a roadmap to address depopulation and enhance the wellbeing of residents. Scotland’s Equalities Minister, Kaukab Stewart, said: “By funding these projects, we will encourage more people to stay, live and work in Dumfries and Galloway, and help to ensure housing and employment opportunities are available. “This will support local communities to attract and retain the people they need to thrive. “This is one of six local authorities in Scotland to benefit from the £360,000 Addressing Depopulation Fund, which is part of our plan to ensure that communities right across the country are