Plans for the biggest housebuilding project in Glenrothes for a generation have been given the green light by councillors.
Members of Fife Council’s central planning area committee approved plans in principle for 420 homes and several industrial units in the south of the town.
The Westwood Park project, between Stenton and Thornton, could swell the population of Glenrothes significantly, with construction likely to take around a decade.
The decision was taken after lengthy questioning of planning officials by members, with councillors expressing their worries over the impact of additional traffic on Thornton and the A92.
Glenrothes West councillor Peter Grant said: “I have some real concerns about the long-term traffic implications of the development.
“What we are hoping is that drivers will go home via the A92. However, at some times the Bankhead roundabout can be dangerous and realistically, a lot of that traffic will head through Thornton.
“I would like to see traffic stay on the main road but in reality, it will go where it is most convenient.”
The massive site 41 hectares in total will have three areas, with access to industrial sites achieved from an access point at the Bankhead roundabout.
To cater for new housing, road junctions would be created on Foxton Drive, where access points already exist.
The first phase of housebuilding would take place in the south-east corner of the application site, next to Blackwood Road.
Further housebuilding would take place on the western side of the land, next to Stenton, while further business and industrial sites will be constructed in and around existing units.
Land at the site has been earmarked for a new school but there are no plans for that at this stage.
There were also further concerns about Glenrothes effectively joining with Thornton, though these fears were allayed after it was revealed the more southerly Lochty View estate is officially designated as part of Glenrothes.
Despite persistent questioning, councillors were unanimous in their support for the project.
Mr Grant added: “We should be supporting this application. We know the need for housing and for good employment land but it’s also important we get the detail right.”