MAXWELLTOWN got a new lease of life this week thanks to a joint effort by the People’s Project and Dumfries and Galloway Council.
The two organisations initially teamed up in 2021 to upgrade the area, now their hard work has resulted in the car park at Glasgow Street and the corner of Galloway Street having a makeover, to the delight of many community members.
Two new interpretation boards about the history of ‘Old Maxwelltown’ formed the finishing touch to the local revamp.
And they were officially unveiled on Wednesday by local author and poet, Tom Pow.
The boards of sepia photos and information and act as a record of the history of the burgh of Maxwelltown, with some telling the story of the demolition of many buildings in the 1960s.
In addition, two recycled benches complete the upgraded area, situated at the corner of Galloway Street, opposite the Spread Eagle Inn and the Family History Society.
A specially designed fence has also been erected and the council gardeners, assisted by volunteers from the People’s Project, have planted hundreds of perennial plants which will ensure a beautiful display throughout most of the year.
Councillor Archie Dryburgh said: “Our council is committed to working with individuals and organisations to continue to make Dumfries and Galloway an inviting place to live, work, and visit. This project has made a significant improvement to the Maxwelltown area of Dumfries, and we look forward to working with the People’s Project in the future.”
Speaking about the success of the project, founder of the People’s Project, Mark Jardine, added: “This has been a very positive example of collaborative working which involved many people from the People’s Project and Dumfries and Galloway working together.
“The upgrade is much appreciated by local people who live in Maxwelltown.
“It is amazing what can be done by having a shared vision, working together and having the determination to make a difference.”
