Cupar Development Trust wants to find out how creative the town is.
It has been awarded funding from Fife Council to develop proposals for a creative industry hub for the town.
The hub is a key part of the Cupar Inner Court project, which aims to regenerate part of the derelict backlands behind Crossgate.
It was backed by the public during last year’s town centre charrette.
“The Cupar Inner Court project is a mixed use development that will replace vacant and derelict land with affordable homes and new opportunities for business,” said the trust’s Jim McLeish.
“This study will look at how we can create the sort of business premises which will be of most benefit to Cupar.”
Cupar’s role as an administrative and market town was the basis for its historic prosperity.
But it has declined in recent years with changes in shopping, the local authority and courts services.
The study will look ahead to see how Cupar can react to the changing opportunities for Scotland’s towns.
“Creative industries are a growth area for businesses development, but Fife is under-represented in employment and premises in this sector,” said Tom Morton of Arc Architects, who is leading the study.
Dundee is well known for its focus on digital games design and performance art, while Perth and Edinburgh are both putting significant investment into developing hubs tailored to creative industries.
“Our study will look at how that success can be translated to the scale of a town like Cupar, which has the advantages of good public transport, an active community and an attractive environment.
“The hubs recently created in Anstruther, Dunfermline and Newburgh have all been successes.
“We want to see how distinctive business premises for creative industries could contribute to town centre renewal,” said Mr Morton.
The term creative industries covers a broad range including design, digital media, fashion, publishing, music, art and craft.
The team are would like to hear from small businesses or individuals who are interested in the potential for facilities in Cupar.
They should email office@arc-architects.com.
