Ambitious plans that could see the transformation of a notorious Glenrothes neighbourhood could begin this year.
The operators of the Golden Glenrothes charrette say it is feasible that the Glenwood Shopping Centre and its adjacent flats could be demolished as part of a project to regenerate the area.
The process, which has enjoyed widespread support from the local community, had initially formulated several plans to breathe new life into the community.
However, organisers have costed new proposals that could potentially result in the removal of a notorious block of flats, long seen as the one of main sources of antisocial behaviour in the area.
If carried forward, Julie Frost, from Golden Glenrothes co-ordinator Planning Aid Scotland, said that some minor work on the wider project could start in 2018.
“There is a feeling that even though it will take time, the image of the area will change,” she said.
“If there is the political will then there’s no reason why some work could not start next year.
“To demolish the flats there would need to be a Compulsory Purchase Order made because while the council owns some of the flats the others are private.
“But not everything would happen at once.”
Should demolition of the flats take place, a new greenspace would be created at the heart of the redeveloped complex, catering for community events.
Existing businesses have already indicated a willingness to relocate to new shop units, while a new community hub would also be constructed as a focal point for local residents.
Any demolition would, however, also see the demise of the local library building, which was subject to a community campaign to save it following local authority budget cuts.
“This option does mean the removal of the existing library,” continued Mrs Frost.
“But we are looking 20 years ahead and it would make sense.
“Instead there would be a community hub, of which there would be a book lending capability.”
Planning Aid Scotland will now refine its proposals with a view to submitting an application for planning permission in principle in the near future.
