March concerns for D&G

To our elected representatives


Dumfries and Galloway’s future rests in your hands. This month’s council budget decision has laid bare a troubling misalignment between community priorities and bureaucratic actions, underscoring the urgent need for a Lean Six Sigma approach to governance. Simultaneously, our hospitality and tourism sector—a £300 million lifeline for our economy—faces a crisis, with iconic venues closing and our region’s voice fading in parliamentary debates. The time has come for decisive leadership, efficient resource allocation, and unwavering advocacy to secure the future of our communities and key industries. 



A Leaner Council, Better Value, and Services We Deserve.

 


This month’s council budget decision has been deeply disappointing. Despite a guided consultation process, the final budget appears to have ignored the feedback of ratepayers, failed to address the costly inefficiencies of over-managed departments, and continued to prioritise vanity projects over broader community needs. This decision undermines trust in the council’s ability to listen, act responsibly, and deliver value for money. I would call on the council to explain its decisions, address these shortcomings, and refocus its priorities on serving the best interests of the community.


Efficiency. Value. Service. Fulfilled Promises. What Your Council on Should Deliver.


—--------------------------------------



A Call to Action for one of the areas Key Industries



As someone with a keen interest in local political influencers, I’ve been keeping a close eye on our parliamentary representatives and their contributions to key debates. Using a combination of strategic keyword alerts and comparative zanalysis, I’ve been tracking how rural, retail, maritime, agricultural, tourism, and hospitality sectors are represented in “Hansard” and “The Official Report”.  


Interestingly, I’ve benchmarked Dumfries and Galloway against other constituencies with similar economic drivers. While our region boasts a rich tapestry of farming, tourism, and hospitality, the data suggests that Dumfries and Galloway is slightly behind the curve when it comes to comparative mentions of hospitality & Tourism versus farming and tourism in parliamentary discussions.  


This insight is particularly concerning given the current challenges facing the region. The hospitality and tourism sector, which employs over 6,000 people locally and generates more than £300 million annually for the local economy, is at a fork in the road. Is it to be growth, stagnation or decline? A concerning number of high-profile venues have either closed or are currently on the market, signaling a sector under strain. For example:  


- **The Selkirk Arms Hotel** in Kirkcudbright, a historic establishment, is currently on the market.  

- **The Creebridge House Hotel** in Newton Stewart has recently closed its doors.  

- **The Crown Hotel** in Wigtown, a key part of the region’s literary tourism offering, is also up for sale.  

- **The Kenbridge Hotel** in New Galloway, a popular stop for visitors exploring the Galloway Forest Park, has ceased operations.  


These closures and sales are not just isolated incidents but indicative of a broader trend. The hospitality and tourism sector is a cornerstone of Dumfries and Galloway’s economy, and its struggles have far-reaching implications for local employment, community vitality, and the region’s appeal as a destination.  


To survive, let alone grow, the sector needs to enrich its soil. This means not only addressing immediate challenges but also fostering an environment where innovation, investment, and collaboration can thrive. Whether through targeted policy support, improved infrastructure, or enhanced promotion of the region’s unique offerings, there is a clear need for action.  


Dumfries and Galloway has so much to offer, from its stunning landscapes to its vibrant communities. By ensuring that key industries like farming, tourism, and hospitality are given the attention they deserve, we can secure a brighter future for the region.  


It's time to work together to ensure Dumfries and Galloway’s unique strengths are highlighted and championed in the halls of power.  



As our representatives, you have the power to drive transformative change. By embracing Lean Six Sigma principles—eliminating waste, listening to the Voice of the Customer, and delivering measurable value—you can restore trust in local governance and revitalize our economy. Dumfries and Galloway’s potential is immense, but it requires your commitment to efficiency, collaboration, and action. Let’s work together to ensure our region isn’t just a place of promise but a model of progress and prosperity. The community is counting on you—let’s rise to the challenge.  


Best regards,  

Cuddy Rig

The Dumfries Fool


PS.


Now from fact to fiction if you want to read a futuristic fantasy I have written a scenario.


Take a look at the blog I write 

https://dgfool.blogspot.com/2025/03/the-dumfries-fool.html?m=1


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