About
Crannog Campus
The Crannog is an exciting new community-led activity centre being developed on the site of the former Carlingwark Outdoor Centre in Lochside Park.
Named after the ancient man-made island dwellings once found on Carlingwark Loch, the Crannog reflects the area’s rich natural and cultural heritage and its deep connection to place.
Castle Douglas Development Forum (CDDF), on behalf of the local community, has secured a 25-year lease on the site through a Community Asset Transfer. The Crannog will transform the area into a vibrant hub for children, young people, families, and visitors — offering indoor and outdoor activities that support creativity, play, learning, and wellbeing.
The project will sit at the heart of promoting environmental awareness, biodiversity, and sustainable living.
It will also help tackle key local issues such as isolation, food poverty, and lack of accessible opportunities.
The building will be developed in three phases:
- Upgrading existing buildings like the Keeper’s Cottage and Curling Hut for community use.
- The creation of a flexible new hall and landscaped outdoor areas.
- A new inclusive playpark and links to nearby facilities like the skatepark and caravan park add to the site’s potential.
Designed with community consultation and co-design at its core, the Crannog will offer volunteering, learning, and creative opportunities, and once complete is expected to attract up to 23,000 visitors per year. It will be financially self-sustaining within five years, funded initially by grants.
The Crannog is more than a building — it’s a bold step toward a greener, more connected and resilient Castle Douglas.
