Marina project prepares to launch

The first pontoons have been put in place at Stranraer harbour

A major marina development in south west Scotland is expected to open within weeks.

Dumfries and Galloway Council hopes the Stranraer scheme will play a part in regenerating the town's waterfront.

The first pontoons have started to arrive for the project, which has been described as a "major milestone" for the harbour.

The marina will be capable of hosting up to 50 boats, with the council confident all berths will be taken.

Economic regeneration officer Tony Fitzpatrick said it was an important step forward for Stranraer.

"The projects to date have all been about preparing the ground but the pontoons are about new infrastructure," he said.

"This will attract new people to Stranraer in line with all our plans to develop a marina.

"We have a team that has been working behind the scenes to ensure that the facilities are marketed beyond Stranraer and the immediate area."