‘Exciting plans’ emerge for town centre site

The Wirefox property investment and development firm have bought the Southergate Centre on the High Street, which comprises the former Jumpin Jaks nightclub and the adjacent multi-storey car park.
And they have ‘major plans’ for a mixed-use redevelopment on a ‘significant part’ of the 2.3 acre site, which holds 14 commercial units and 185 parking spaces.
And the Holywood based firm say they are currently in talks about a range of possible new leisure uses in two of the units, including a family restaurant, a cinema and a gym, amongst others.
Wirefox’s director of asset management Michael Wright said: “Southergate Centre represents a significant ‘value add’ opportunity for the heart of Dumfries and we intend to apply an effective asset management strategy over a five-year period which will physically enhance the current offering, maximise returns and provide a balanced mixed-use development.
“We have exciting plans for a change of use to the current nightclub, whose owner is in administration, and an attractive former listed bank on the site.
“There is major redevelopment potential and we are considering designs for a number of leisure uses.”
He described the purchase as a ‘significant acquisition’ for the firm as it’s their first retail property investment in the Scottish market.
Mr Wright added: “Following successful residential purchases in Edinburgh and the Scottish Borders, this investment augments our portfolio in Scotland and will act as a springboard to further deals.
“Wirefox has developed a stellar pedigree for strategic acquisitions and successful asset management, and Southergate Centre is another feather in our cap.”