McLaughlin & Harvey Wins £38 Million Whitesands Flood Defence Contract in Dumfries

McLaughlin & Harvey has picked up the £38 million job to build flood walls, glass panels, flood gates, and upgraded public spaces along the Whitesands area of Dumfries, Scotland. Backed by Scottish Government funding, the aim is to shield businesses and homes near the River Nith, a spot hit by more than 200 floods since records began. The project starts summer 2026, runs through 2028, and will re-shape one of Scotland’s most important riverside districts.

Project Overview

• Location: Whitesands, Dumfries, Dumfries & Galloway, Scotland

• Budget: £38 million, funded by Scottish Government

• Scope: Flood walls, glass barriers, walkways, flood gates, landscaping, and new public spaces

• Defences will protect key areas from the Dumfries & Galloway Standard offices downstream past Dock Park, Welldale and Kenmure Terrace

High angle view of the River Nith in Dumfries showcasing the site of the flood defence project.

The Community Benefits of Flood Defence Improvements

The benefits of the Whitesands Flood Protection Scheme extend far beyond just infrastructure. Local communities stand to gain improved safety, economic growth, and enhanced public spaces. Historically, the Whitesands area has experienced devastating flood events that disrupted daily life and damaged property. With a reliable flood defence system in place, residents can feel more secure in their homes and businesses.

The public realm upgrades accompanying this project will also transform the area. Improved pathways, green spaces, and recreational facilities along the riverbank will not only enhance the aesthetic appeal but also the functionality of Dumfries. This aligns with the UK’s broader goal of creating urban spaces that are resilient, sustainable, and conducive to community well-being.

In addition, the construction phase will generate local jobs, stimulating the economy and contributing to community resilience. Engaging local subcontractors and suppliers is likely a priority for McLaughlin & Harvey, ensuring that benefits are felt within the Dumfries community.

Conceptual image detailing the construction plan for the flood defence project.

Why Flood Defence is Crucial for the UK

Floods are becoming more frequent and severe due to climate change, and the UK is not immune to this reality. According to the National Audit Office, almost 5 million properties are at risk of flooding in the UK, and with rising sea levels and extreme weather events, this number is expected to increase. Therefore, the importance of investing in flood defence systems cannot be overstated.

In recent years, there has been a notable increase in the investment of flood defence projects across the UK. The government has recognized the need for a comprehensive approach to flood risk management, incorporating resilient infrastructure and sustainable urban development. The initiation of the Whitesands Flood Protection Scheme underscores this commitment, demonstrating a proactive approach to safeguarding communities against future flood risk.

A key takeaway for construction professionals is the growing demand for expertise in flood risk assessment and sustainable construction practices. As more funding becomes available for such initiatives, there will be ample opportunities for skilled professionals to engage in cutting-edge projects aimed at infrastructure resilience.

Construction Details

• Flood defences: Raised concrete walls, demountable glass panels for views, accessible gated walkways

• Additional works: Landscaping, tree planting, street lighting, new riverside seating, and improved cycle links

• Public realm upgrades: Transforms flood-prone areas into attractive, usable riverside spaces while tackling climate resilience

• Construction management: Project runs in two stages-early contractor involvement and main works build for safety, cost and logistics

Artistic rendering showcasing the proposed public realm improvements along the River Nith in Dumfries.

Timeline

• Tender award: September 2025

• Pre-construction/ECI phase: July-December 2025

• Main works start: Summer 2026

• Major construction: 2026-2028

• Landscaping, defects corrections, completion: By 2030

Strategic Importance

Whitesands is Scotland's top flood hot spot-over 200 incidents since records began, making protection not just wise, but necessary with climate change threats rising. Flood resilience will protect homes and encourage new investment, while public realm upgrades will boost tourism, tackle blight, and attract more foot traffic. This project underlines the drive toward sustainable building, community engagement, and smart public infrastructure.

Construction Opportunities

• Flood wall and barrier construction

• Piling, reinforced embankments, concrete and glass works

• Landscaping, planting, public space upgrades

• Design and installation of smart drainage, lighting, and signage

• Specialist project-management for climate resilience, community benefits, and safety compliance

Writer's Opinion

Winning the Whitesands job is a big deal for McLaughlin & Harvey, this isn't just about stopping floods, it's about giving Dumfries a fresh start on its waterfront. When public space gets safer and more inviting, it changes how a town feels and grows. Projects that blend engineering with real everyday benefits are what make infrastructure meaningful. For firms thinking ahead, climate-smart work like this will only get more important in years to come. It's a smart place to be and a great opportunity to help redetine what resilient cities look like across the UK.