There’s uncertainty around the future of several businesses and community groups in Dumfries, after they were handed a six-months notice to vacate the property from which they currently operate.
The North West Resource Centre in Dumfries is described as a popular community hub by those who work and visit the building.
The council owned building is leased by children’s charity Aberlour, who sub-let spaces to community groups, other charities and businesses.
However, Aberlour has decided to relocate to what they describe as a more sustainable premises. But it means their sub-tenants will also have to go in March 2026.
It sub-lets rooms to various groups and businesses, including Ami-Zone cafe.
Kelly has been running Ami-Zone cafe for three years, and says she may have to close because relocation costs are too expensive.
Kelly Jamieson who runs the cafe said: “It was utter shock. We just got an email saying our leases were being terminated, we had six months to leave the building and it was just destroying because we’ve worked so hard to build this up for the community to use.
“I’ve got one customer that said this place saved his life, which was very emotional.
“I’ll just have to close because relocation costs are too high, so yes, I’ll be unemployed.”
Several community groups also rent space in the centre, including Dumfries U3A which hosts a range of activities for retired people.
Kathleen says the group fears the cost of renting another space will be too high.
Kathleen Simpson, the chair of Dumfries U3A said: “Basing it on a monthly basis there could be around 150 people coming through that door, maybe half our membership.
“Our fear for the future is that we will have to move to other rooms that will cost us more.”
One customer at Ami-Zone cafe, Rose, said: “I work at Abbey Gardens nursing home, our service users use this place a lot, and it’s getting them out, it’s community, it’s everything.
Another person said: “It would be a big loss to the community, it is a safe space for a lot of people.”
Aberlour children’s charity said: “Aberlour Children’s Charity’s services in Dumfries and Galloway are relocating to more sustainable premises, enabling us to continue supporting children and families effectively.
“Our service currently based, in part of the building, at the North West Resource Centre in Dumfries will move on 31 March 2027 to Moat Brae Building on George Street.
“The wellbeing of the children and families we support remains our priority. We are planning smooth and well-managed transitions to enable us to continue to deliver services for the benefit of the local community.”
Dumfries and Galloway Council said: “The council has been given notice by Aberlour to quit their tenancy of the North West Resource Centre by the end of the financial year and we acknowledge the impact this will have on the other organisations who use the building.
“The council is assessing the situation to determine next steps and options in relation to the space currently occupied by Aberlour and to determine what options and support might be available to support and signpost Aberlour’s sub tenants on future delivery accommodation.”
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