Carronbridge Sawmill

Our Story

The whistle for beginnings at Carronbridge Sawmill came in 1910. Whilst a sawmill in Thornhill, Dumfries and Galloway, existed for decades, it was only when Brian Wylie, a local boy with a passion for timber, steered the operation in 1995 that a new era commenced. Brian, a seasoned woodcutter who had successfully navigated the world of forestry, saw an opportunity in this mill. Partnering with the Buccleuch Estate, which owned the land, a dynamic collaboration was forged. The Buccleuch Estate, part of the Duke of Buccleuch's vast holdings, had a long-standing relationship with the sawmill, and Brian's expertise and drive promised a revitalization. At the time, the mill had been operating erratically, opening and closing at unpredictable intervals, leaving the local community with uncertainty. Brian recognized the potential dormant within the 8-acre site, fuelled by an abundance of timber resources in Dumfries and Galloway and its strategic positioning for nationwide distribution.

With the Estate retaining a 25% stake, the Wylies took the helm, ushering in a new era. Brian dove head first into managing the day-to-day milling operations, while Veronica, his wife, mastered the office infrastructure. Initially, their focus was on serving local fencing and rail needs, but within a few years, a landmark decision propelled them forward. In 2000, with an astute eye on the growing demand for pallet wood, a new mill was erected. This pivotal move not only expanded their offerings but solidified their reputation as innovators and responders to market trends.

From Pallet Wood to a Nation-wide Fencing Supplier

Brian attributed this growth to "natural progression, " a testament to their keen observation of market demands. As the cost of pallets dropped and the demand for fencing components surged, Carronbridge pivoted to become a specialist fencing mill, producing slats, Feather Edge boards, and all the essentials for fencing panels and installations. This strategic move proved to be a stroke of genius. The precision and focus brought to timber production, combined with a commitment to quality, quickly propelled Carronbridge's reputation beyond the local area.

To cater to the burgeoning demand for pallets, Brian and Veronica astutely established a separate yard at Closeburn. This allowed them to continue supplying pallet components while dedicating the main mill to their rapidly expanding fencing division. A key turning point came when Carronbridge fully transitioned from timber harvesting to procuring locally sourced wood from across Scotland, further strengthening their commitment to the local economy.

Today, Carronbridge Sawmill stands as a testament to entrepreneurial vision and adaptability. With 22 dedicated staff, including General Manager Bill Frew, who has been with the company for a decade, Carronbridge produces an impressive 300m3 of fencing material weekly, serving a nationwide network of customers, exceeding an annual business turnover of 2 million. "We are an out and out local and Scottish business, " Veronica proudly affirms, highlighting their commitment to utilizing local resources, supporting other Scottish businesses, and investing in their community through sporting sponsorships.

A Greener Approach to Timber:

Nestled in the heart of Dumfries and Galloway, Carronbridge Sawmill boasts its own pressure treatment tank, a unique asset that allows them to offer green treatment for their products. This environmentally conscious method ensures the long-lasting durability of their timber while minimizing the ecological footprint. From fence posts and rails to trellis and decking, every product is treated with care, ensuring both longevity and environmental responsibility.