Cupar independent Fife councillor Bryan Poole has questioned the need for a major housing development on the north side of Cupar and believes “the clock is ticking” for residents to get answers.
After a heated discussion at this month’s meeting of Cupar Community Council and speaking just days ahead of two public consultation meetings, Mr Poole said he has “never been convinced” Cupar North is in the best interests of the town.
Persimmon Homes East Scotland, Headon Developments and Vico Properties Scotland Ltd have formed a consortium to develop a masterplan for the northern expansion of Cupar.
The consortium has submitted a Proposal of Application Notice (Pan) to Fife Council, which triggers a formal consultation period and offers interested parties a chance to get involved in discussions.
As well as up to 1,400 houses, it hopes to build retail, business and industry facilities, a care home, a hotel and a primary school. A relief road is also mooted.
But Mr Poole has criticised the “secrecy” surrounding Cupar North since it was first suggested by a different consortium in 2006, forcing residents to undertake freedom of information requests to find out what was being planned.
He said: “There is a huge risk that the planning consultants, landowners and developers will gain significant financial gains from Cupar North and the people of Cupar get all the pain.
“Having said that, it is my view Cupar does require a sizeable number of new properties particularly housing that is affordable for younger families setting out in life. There is also a need for housing for both those who prefer to rent and/or those who are unable to afford to buy.
“There is also a need for land to be earmarked/released for employment/business, with the Trading Estate on the outskirts of Cupar just about at capacity.”
Mr Poole added: “Personally, I believe the clock is ticking on the Cupar North development.
“I’ve said to representatives of the consortium and Fife Council officials that unless there is something to take to local people by the end of this year/early next year then we need to look at other options and there are other options to meet the need for housing and growing the town in a sensible, sustainable and planned way.”
Picture by George McLuskie