D&G Tourism's up for sale!

Please open your eyes now.
Dumfries and Galloway, renowned for its rich cultural heritage and breathtaking landscapes, has long been a beacon for tourists and a cornerstone of Scotland's hospitality industry. However, recent economic challenges have led to the closure of several cherished establishments, including the Peter Pan Moat Brae Trust and Visitor Centre in Dumfries, which permanently closed its doors on August 23, 2024. Additionally, beloved venues such as Gather near Gatehouse of Fleet, Mr Pook's Kitchen in Castle Douglas, and the Cream o' Galloway visitor centre have ceased operations, with the latter relocating its ice cream production to Yorkshire. This trend is further evidenced by an increase in local businesses listed for sale, reflecting the mounting pressures faced by the sector. Even a successful business like the Selkirk Arms in Kirkudbright is under treat.

Notably, several prominent establishments are currently on the market. The Gables Hotel in Gretna, an established wedding, corporate, and leisure venue, is listed for offers in excess of £1 million. The Kings Arms Hotel in Castle Douglas, a 10-bedroom town centre hotel, is also available, highlighting the financial strains on even well-established businesses. In total, there are at least 20 hotels for sale in the region, underscoring the widespread challenges within the industry. I have identified over £12m of Tourism/Hospitality up for sale.

While much is being said about our fishing and farming barriers to trade, I am hearing very little local political noise on this sector.
The tourism sector is vital to our region's economy, supporting approximately 7,000 jobs and accounting for 11.5% of all employment. The ripple effects of business closures extend beyond lost jobs; they impact local supply chains, reduce tax revenues, and diminish the vibrancy of our communities.

In response to these challenges, Dumfries and Galloway Council has initiated some support programs. The Major Events Fund 2025/26 and the Regional Events Growth Fund 2025/26 have been established to bolster festivals and events, with a combined budget of £82,000 aimed at sustaining and developing our region's renowned events. Additionally, the Regional Cultural Fund 2024/25 has allocated over £62,000 to fourteen cultural and heritage projects, enhancing community-led creative initiatives.

While these efforts are commendable, more comprehensive support is essential. I urge local authorities, national agencies, and the community to:

1. Enhance Financial Support: Increase funding and grants to assist businesses in overcoming economic hardships.


2. Streamline Regulatory Processes: Simplify procedures to reduce administrative burdens on small and medium-sized enterprises.


3. Promote Local Tourism: Invest in marketing campaigns that highlight the unique attractions of Dumfries and Galloway to both domestic and international audiences.


4. Foster Collaboration: Encourage partnerships between businesses, community groups, and government bodies to create a resilient support network.



The tourism and hospitality sector is not merely an economic contributor; it embodies the spirit and identity of Dumfries and Galloway. By uniting in support of this vital industry, we can preserve our heritage, sustain our communities, and ensure a prosperous future for all.

Scotland may start here but let's make sure it doesn't stop here now.

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