A PROPOSAL to convert an empty office space in Dumfries town centre into two flats could potentially be sunk due to flooding concerns.
L Murray Property Ltd has submitted a planning application to Dumfries and Galloway Council for changing the use of the old office/storage space at 12 Whitesands and transforming the building into a three-bedroom flat on the first floor and two-bedroom property on the second floor.
Council planning chiefs are supportive of the proposals, however the Scottish Government will ultimately have the final say because the Scottish Environmental Protection Agency (SEPA) has lodged an objection.
SEPA argued that the development “increases vulnerability” to flooding at the site. SEPA chiefs have confirmed they are aware that the Whitesands Flood Prevention Scheme is planned for the area, but say that this cannot be taken into account until it is under construction.
Meanwhile, the council’s flood risk management team have also objected to the planning application, stating: “Dumfries and Galloway Council have historical records showing flooding near to the proposed site.
“The proposed change of use represents an increased risk in vulnerability, as per…
