Photo by Molly Butterworth on Unsplash

Housing is one of the biggest challenges faced by nearly all rural communities in Scotland. Reading that along with the issue depopulation, it is one of the reasons that people step back from moving back into the rural communities. The question “where will I live if I move back?” often holds them back. Therefore, it is vital that communities find viable solutions to tackle the housing challenges along with tackling depopulation. 

One of the SEC’s current missions is to take a proactive approach to address the housing issues in Sanquhar. With most of the town’s housing options owned by private landlords, leaving little to no council housing available for residents, there lies an issue of availability and affordability. The main issue is the high running costs, as most of the housing was built shortly after World War II. Although it has been upgraded, it still does not meet modern building standards. People who want to move to a bigger house as their family grows often have only a few choices when it comes to finding suitable accommodation.  

In 2022, SEC partnered with the South of Scotland Community Housing (SOSCH) to complete a housing needs and demand assessment for Sanquhar. Plans are in place to explore new building options, including community housing to Passivhaus standards, which will reduce the carbon footprint to net zero and result in savings on energy costs. They are also looking into the possibility of repurposing vacant buildings in the town to include social housing.

How do they work? 

Since its founding, Sanquhar Enterprise Company has collaborated closely with the Sanquhar Community Council to create a long term vision for the area’s development. Together, they launched the 2022-2026 Sanquhar & District Community Action Plan, a detailed guide that outlines key goals for the community’s regeneration. This plan covers various aspects of community life, from protecting local heritage and supporting businesses to improving facilities and building a sense of community. 

The Community Action Plan is designed to meet the specific needs of Sanquhar’s residents, aiming to create sustainable growth that preserves the area’s unique heritage while preparing it for a vibrant future. This structured approach ensures that every project aligns with the community’s long term goals and maximises local impact. 

The initiative has also benefited greatly from the strong support of Dumfries and Galloway Council and the ward manager, whose guidance and collaboration have been invaluable. Funding from Upper Nithsdale Community Trust and Foundation Scotland has also played a crucial role in enabling many of the projects outlined in the plan. 

The Role of the Development Officer 

To turn the Community Action Plan into action, Sanquhar Enterprise Company has hired a Development Officer who is responsible for overseeing and implementing targeted projects that promote sustainable community growth. Ronnie Bradford, who is the Development Officer at SEC, focuses on projects that support the local community, preserve the town’s historic character, and improve facilities for residents. With the Action Plan as a roadmap, Ronnie’s role is central to making sure that each project aligns with the community’s needs and vision. 

“Turning plans into reality is a challenging task, but it’s also incredibly rewarding when it aligns with what I aspire to achieve. I want to see Sanquhar thrive, not just survive, and I am fully committed to making that happen.” says Ronnie Bradford, Development Officer of SEC.

By focusing on community led projects, SEC ensures that residents feel a sense of ownership and pride in the changes happening around them. This approach not only supports immediate needs but also helps create a sustainable path forward for Sanquhar, where the community’s strengths are utilised to drive local development. 

Impact and Key Achievements 

By taking a community-first approach, the organisation has built a reputation as a trusted local partner that actively listens to residents and responds to their needs. The launch of the Community Action Plan was a significant step, providing a clear and focused direction for future projects. The employment of a Development Officer marked another important milestone, ensuring that the goals outlined in the Action Plan are carried out with dedication and expertise. 

During this short period, SEC has made significant contributions to Sanquhar by enhancing its infrastructure, improving accessibility, and ensuring safer transit for the community. They have completed the construction of two new paths: the Euchan Walk and the Braeheads Circular Core Path. Additionally, two more path projects are currently in the planning stages. Another key achievement has been the stabilisation work at Sanquhar Castle, which has been tidied up. SEC is also exploring further steps to help protect and preserve the remaining structure of the castle. 

Through its work, Sanquhar Enterprise Company aims to bring new life to the area, making it a more resilient, attractive, and sustainable place for current and future generations. 

Future 

In 2025, Sanquhar Enterprise Company is looking forward to continue its efforts guided by a new more comprehensive Local Place Plan and Strategic Development Plan, which is currently being developed, which will serve as a more powerful tool for driving change and is considering six key themes.  

1. Sustainable Sanquhar 
2. Local Facilities and Activities 
3. Town Environment and Transport Links 
4. Culture and Heritage 
5. The Natural Environment 
6. Tourism, Business and Employment

However, they view the Local Place Plan and Strategic Development Plan as a dynamic process. By actively engaging more with the community and listening to their needs, they aim to ensure their efforts align with what the community truly requires. With a new team member onboard, they are planning to move into a prominent office space and their commitment remains focused on supporting Sanquhar in becoming a model of a sustainable community in rural Scotland.