A “scab” on Kirkcaldy’s landscape is to be transformed thanks to a huge cash injection.
More than £150,000 is to be invested to improve the rundown Birnam Road shops in Templehall one of Fife’s most deprived areas. Years of anti-social behaviour outside the shops led to them becoming shabby and avoided by residents.
While the anti-social aspect has improved following the introduction of youth projects, the scruffy appearance of the shops has not.
The shops are privately owned and discussions are ongoing between the owners and Fife Council about possible improvements.
However, the local authority has agreed to extensively resurface the land outside and provide social areas, seating and parking bays. Low-maintenance shrub beds will also be created.
Other problems, such as poor lighting, traffic management and safer routes to school, have already been addressed.
The latest work follows in-depth discussions with local people, groups, and staff at the area’s primary school, all of whom are said to be “overwhelmingly supportive” of the proposals.
In a report to Kirkcaldy area committee, officer Ken Halley said: “As well as improving the physical appearance of the area and providing a pleasant area for people to meet and socialise, it is hoped this will bring economic benefit to the area through increased use of the shops.”
He added that the work would transform the area and provide a pleasant space for people to meet and socialise.
The move was universally welcomed by Kirkcaldy councillors, who said the work was long overdue.
Committee chairman Neil Crooks, who represents Templehall, said: “Local people will be happy Fife Council is actually delivering for them because until now they have referred to Birnam Road shops as a scab on our community.
“This investment will change that and increase the sense of wellbeing about their community.”
Councillor Carol Lindsay said the issue has been under discussion for seven years.
“At last we are doing something about this concrete mess that looks almost as if it’s just been dropped out of the sky.
“This is just fantastic and should be celebrated.”