Councillors have reluctantly given a developer more time to transform the derelict Hotel Roma in Halbeath into shops.
The former Italian restaurant has lain empty since 2007 and, despite efforts by agents Yeoman McAllister Architects to market the site, there has been no interest from retailers.
Councillors on the west planning committee agreed to give the agents a further three years to create retail units at the High Street site, which has become an eyesore, although they were not optimistic.
Alice McGarry said: “It is highly unlikely that somebody would be able to develop and open shops in that area.
“It’s outrageous that somebody has been allowed to keep a building in the middle of a high street in that condition. I think they should come back with something different other than a retail development.”
In the planning report considered by the committee, the costs associated with demolishing the building were described as “prohibitive”.
David Mogg questioned the report, which stated the applicant “has, and shall continue to undertake, to make the building safe and secure”.
He added: “I know local residents are concerned about vermin running around the place.”
The meeting heard it was up to Halbeath Residents and Tenants Association to raise concerns about the building with the agents.
Helen Law said: “Here we have a small community trying really hard to pull themselves up by their bootstraps. They are actively involved in trying to improve the community.
“I just think it’s an absolute disgrace that they are being left to deal with this.”