A derelict Kirkcaldy building’s regeneration into a centre honouring world-famous economist Adam Smith has taken another step forward.
The exhibition and visitor centre will be housed in a renovated 18th century listed building at 1 Adam Smith Close in Kirkcaldy town centre.
Now official plans have been submitted to Fife Council for the work to convert the building, with planners voicing approval of the work.
There is growing evidence the site of the building formed part of the wider property in which Adam Smith was born.
Smith has been described as the founding father of modern economics after his work The Wealth of Nations was published in 1776.
The Adam Smith Global Foundation is seeking to raise the profile of Kirkcaldy as the birthplace of Adam Smith through the creation of an educational and visitor facility focusing on his birthplace.
The building at 1 Adam Smith Close had fallen into disrepair when in private ownership and had been unoccupied for many years.
The Fife Historic Buildings Trust bought the building on behalf of the Adam Smith Foundation.
The trust is now seeking to restore it and secure its reuse as a visitor centre, the building then reverting to the foundation for future management.
The latest plans lodged for the building would see internal and external alterations as well as the installation of new windows.
Fife Council planner David Shankland said: “The proposed internal and external alterations have been designed in a manner which both protects and enhances the essential character and appearance of the listed building.
“The proposal would also enhance the surrounding Conservation Area by bringing the property back into use.
“The applicant’s desire to restore the building in a sympathetic manner will undoubtedly revitalise the building and secure its long term future.”
The three-storey building is a rare example of a type once prevalent, extending from the rear of buildings fronting Kirkcaldy High Street to the seafront.
Architect Stephen Newsom said: “Although built in the 18th century it is thought the building was substantially modified in the mid-19th century.
“As a survived rig building it is important in being a component of the urban fabric of Kirkcaldy which pre-dated the early to mid-20th century redevelopment of the rigs to form Kirkcaldy esplanade.”
UK Communities Secretary Eric Pickles previously announced £292,000 from the Coastal Communities Fund would go towards the project, which will cost more than £700,000 in total.
Chief executive officer for the Adam Smith Global Foundation, Marilyn Livingstone, said the funding would help complete the project and would also help to “support the legacy of Adam Smith in his birthplace of Kirkcaldy”.