Dundee is currently undergoing a transformative £1.6 billion waterfront redevelopment project, the third-largest regeneration effort in the UK, which is scheduled for completion by 2031. In February 2026, the city’s news landscape is dominated by the progress of the Central Waterfront’s latest office and residential plots, major upcoming exhibitions at the V&A Dundee, and critical fixture updates for both Dundee FC and Dundee United. As Scotland’s fourth-largest city and the UK’s first UNESCO City of Design, Dundee continues to balance its industrial heritage with a rapidly expanding digital media and biotechnology sector.
Latest News and Top Headlines (February 2026)
The second week of February 2026 saw significant emergency service activity in the city’s east end. On February 12, four fire appliances were mobilized to Lansdowne Square to tackle a dwelling fire; fortunately, no casualties were reported, though a block of flats was evacuated.
In local governance, the Dundee City Council has officially opened its 2026-27 Budget Consultation. The council is facing an estimated funding deficit of £8.4 million for the upcoming financial year, leading to public discussions regarding potential council tax increases and the prioritization of essential services like social care and road maintenance.
The £1.6bn Waterfront Transformation
The Dundee Waterfront project remains the most significant news story for the city’s long-term economic future. Spanning 240 hectares across five zones—Dundee Port, City Quay, Central Waterfront, Seabraes, and Riverside—the project has already completed nine major sites as of early 2026.
Central Waterfront Progress
Construction on Site 6, which provides Grade-A office accommodation opposite the V&A Dundee, is nearing final completion in early 2026. Meanwhile, Site 2 (Yeaman Shore) is currently serving as a temporary car park while developers finalize plans for further commercial and residential integration.
Residential Developments
Social housing remains a priority within the regeneration. Current projects under construction include 53 new flats at Thorter Loan (City Quay) and the conversion of the former Job Centre on Gellatly Street into 49 modern apartments, helping to increase the city center’s residential population.
Sport: Dundee FC and Dundee United
In February 2026, both of the city’s major football clubs faced a backlog of fixtures due to adverse weather conditions in January. Dundee United has rescheduled its William Hill Premiership clash against Aberdeen for February 24, 2024, at Tannadice Park.
Dundee United: The “Terrors” are currently preparing for a potential Scottish Cup Quarter-Final against Falkirk, scheduled for March 6, provided they progress past the fifth round.
Dundee FC: The “Dees” have also seen their schedule adjusted, with a postponed fixture against St Mirren now set for March 3 at the Kilmac Stadium at Dens Park.
Fans are also tracking the ongoing progress of Dundee FC’s proposed new stadium at Camperdown Park, which is viewed as a vital step in modernizing the club’s infrastructure and match-day revenue streams.
Culture: V&A Dundee 2026 Programme
The V&A Dundee has announced an ambitious lineup of exhibitions for 2026 that cement its position as a global design hub. The major ticketed exhibition, “Catwalk: The Art of the Fashion Show,” is set to make its UK debut on April 3, 2026, tracing over 100 years of runway history.
Other notable events include:
Maggie’s: Architecture that Cares: Opening March 6, 2026, this free exhibition celebrates the 30th anniversary of Maggie’s cancer care centers and their pioneering human-centered design.
Design and Disability: Starting June 5, 2026, this exhibition showcases the radical contributions of Disabled, Deaf, and neurodivergent people to contemporary culture.
100 Years of RRS Discovery: Throughout February, the museum is hosting special events marking a century since the ship’s first oceanographic research expedition.
Public Safety and Local Policing
The Dundee Local Policing Plan 2023-2026 enters its final phase this year, with a focus on five key priorities: violence, public protection, antisocial behavior, road safety, and acquisitive crime. Under the command of Chief Inspector Colin Echevarria, local teams have recently launched “Operation Begonia” to protect vulnerable women and tackle street-level crime.
Recent quarterly reports indicate that while serious assaults have seen a decline in specific wards like Maryfield, “acquisitive crime” (theft and housebreaking) remains an area of active enforcement. The police are also working closely with the Divisional Licensing Team to manage alcohol-related incidents in the city center during weekend peak hours.
Practical Information and Planning
For those living in or visiting Dundee in 2026, the following practical details are essential for navigation and city services.
V&A Dundee Opening Hours: Open daily 10:00–17:00 (January–March: Closed Tuesdays).
Transport: Dundee Airport offers direct flights to London Heathrow, Orkney, and Shetland. The railway station, located directly across from the V&A, connects the city to Edinburgh and Glasgow in approximately 65-90 minutes.
Council Services: Bin collection calendars for 2026 are now available via the Dundee MyBins App.
Low Emission Zone (LEZ): Be aware that Dundee’s LEZ is fully operational in 2026; non-compliant vehicles entering the city center boundary are subject to fines.
Cost of Living Support: The Council Advice Services (located at 1 Shore Terrace) remain open for residents seeking financial guidance or council tax assistance.
Seasonal/Timely Events: Spring 2026
Spring 2026 will see the official start of the Union Street Transformation. This project will fully pedestrianize the street, creating high-quality public space with seating, shelters, and outdoor dining areas to connect the city center more cohesively with the waterfront. Construction is scheduled to begin in March 2026, which may lead to temporary pedestrian diversions around the Nethergate area.
FAQs
Where can I get the latest Dundee news?
The most reliable sources for daily updates are STV News North, the Dundee City Council newsroom, and local sports news via the official Dundee FC and Dundee United websites.
What is the status of the Dundee Waterfront project?
As of 2026, the project is approximately 70% complete. Major office blocks on Site 6 and residential units at City Quay are currently the primary focus of construction.
Are there any major events at the V&A Dundee in 2026?
Yes, the two biggest highlights are “Catwalk: The Art of the Fashion Show” (April 2026) and the “Maggie’s: Architecture that Cares” exhibition (March 2026).
How do I find my bin collection day in Dundee?
Residents should download the Dundee MyBins App or visit the Dundee City Council website to download the specific 2026 calendar for their postcode.
Is the RRS Discovery open for visitors?
Yes, Discovery Point is open daily. In 2026, it is hosting special centenary celebrations for the ship’s first research voyages.
What is the Dundee Low Emission Zone (LEZ)?
The LEZ is a designated area in the city center where only vehicles that meet certain emission standards are allowed. Cameras track license plates, and non-compliant vehicles are automatically fined.
Who is the current leader of Dundee City Council?
As of early 2026, the council is led by Councillor Mark Flynn, who is currently overseeing the 2026/27 budget consultations.
Can I still buy a garden waste permit for 2026?
Yes, applications for 2026 Garden Waste Permits are open through the council’s online portal; the brown bin service typically resumes in early March.
When is the next Dundee Derby?
Derby dates depend on the SPFL fixture list and the league standing of both clubs. Check the official SPFL website for the most accurate 2026/27 season match-ups.
Are there student accommodation shortages in Dundee?
While demand is high, several new Purpose-Built Student Accommodations (PBSA) have recently opened, including the Stanley Studios Phase 2 and the conversion of Telephone House, providing over 500 new beds.
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