shops

This is one of the many empty shops in Dumfries High Street. The problem is being addressed by a project called Midsteeple Quarter, and a benefit society has been formed to allow the local community to take back ownership of the town centre and have a say in its future development. You can see a short film about it HERE.

Many people blame the internet and out of town shopping centres for the demise of the traditional High Street, but some services will always be needed - today I had my hair done and went to a cafe, for example. maybe in years to come, the town centre will be less about shopping and more about meeting up, exercising the body, mind and spirit, sharing ideas and creativity - making art and exploring culture.It's sad that Dumfries Odeon closed last month, but we still have one small cinema, some excellent museums and theatres and more than one art gallery. Of course will always need to buy things and these are some excellent small shops and businesses in the centre of town. Instead of moaning about empty shops, we should be supporting and celebrating what we have and looking for positive ways to make things better.

We also have some excellent hair salons (I was in town to visit one this afternoon). You can't buy a haircut on Amazon :-)