Burns statue works 'will not hit' Dumfries Guid Nychburris festival

The council said it was confident the works would not affect Guid Nychburris celebrations

A council has said it is confident ongoing works around the Burns statue in Dumfries will not "adversely affect" its annual Guid Nychburris festival.

The £1m upgrade project has seen extra work required due to drainage issues in the area.

It has prompted concerns that it might not meet its completion target ahead of celebrations on 21 June.

Dumfries and Galloway Council said it believed the works would not have an impact on the traditional events.

The major improvement scheme in the heart of Dumfries town centre began earlier this year after previous delays.

It was intended it would be completed before the Guid Nychburris weekend.

Increased resources

However, there have been concerns it would miss that target.

A council spokesman said its contractors were continuing to work towards that goal.

"If there are any changes to the work programme we will be in contact with those affected," he said.

"The project suffered some delay as a result of drainage issues and encountering previously unmapped services, however the contractor has increased resources on site in addition to working on Saturdays.

"The contractor is working hard to finish the work and we are confident that Guid Nychburris will not be adversely affected."