KPT Development Trust

A community organisation set up by the villages of Keir, Penpont, and Tynron in Dumfries & Galloway, with the aim of helping make life better for local people — creating opportunities, improving facilities, and looking after the environment.

It started in 2018 after villagers said they wanted a group to plan and run projects for the long term.

They have lots of different projects:

Green Energy: They built a small hydro-electric scheme on the Penpont Burn. It makes renewable electricity and the money raised goes back into community projects.

Paths & Cycling: They are building a safe walking and cycling path between Penpont and Thornhill, due to be finished by 2026. They’ve also improved local trails and footpaths.

E-Bikes: You can rent electric bikes (including a family cargo bike) at low cost to make it easier for people to get around.

Housing & Planning: They’ve done a survey to see what kind of affordable housing is needed locally. They also wrote a Local Place Plan which sets out what villagers want for the future (better traffic safety, housing, a community hub, etc.).

Wellbeing: They run activities like yoga, creative workshops, led walks, and even have a wellbeing garden.

Community Hub: They have an online hub for local news, events, and services.

The Trust continues to give these small villages a way to take charge of their own future — whether that’s producing green energy, keeping people active, or making sure housing and services meet local needs.