Stranraer is one step closer to becoming one of the watersports capitals in the world, according to Finlay Carson MSP.
He believes the town will be totally transformed with the creation of a showpiece state-of-the-art facility.
The Galloway and West Dumfries MSP insists the new multi-million pound development will help attract both national and international competitors.
His optimism comes after the project reached a “significant milestone” last week following an agreement between Dumfries and Galloway Council and Stranraer Water Sports Association to unlock monies from the UK Government’s Levelling Fund.
Mr Carson said: “This is wonderful news that the necessary funding is now in place to allow the regeneration of the waterfront at Loch Ryan and create a new watersports hub costing more than £5 million.
“Not only is it great news for local watersports enthusiasts but will hopefully result in enormous economic benefits, some have even suggested more than double the cost of the facility.
“I am delighted that the SWSA and the council have now reached agreement to finally allow this project to push forward.”
The new development is part of the wider Reactivating Galloway Project that was awarded more than £17 million from the previous UK Government.
The initial idea to create the facility came after the hugely-successful staging of the Skiffie World Championships that attracted record crowds locally, nationally and internationally.
It is hoped that the event will enjoy similar excitement when the world championships return to Stranraer next year with potentially international competitors from South Africa expressing a serious interest.
Thanks to the unique compact layout of Loch Ryan it will also host the 2025 edition of the Scottish Fin and Foil Championships.
The Scottish Conservative and Unionist MSP said beneficiaries of the new development will include sailing, coastal rowing, kayaking, open water swimming, powerboating and canoeing actities.
He said: “The beauty of this hub will be in providing first class facilities and coaching for a range of water sports.
“Not only will it offer activities for the local community, but schools, youth groups and potentially visitors from Scotland and the UK.
“The SWSA deserve full credit for its vision, enthusiastic approach as well as its dogged determination to make it happen. Their actions will hopefully put Stranraer on the international map.”
