Kirkcaldy’s High Street will be able to fend off the latest challenge from an out-of-town retail park, it has been claimed.
Bill Harvey, the manager of Kirkcaldy4All, said he was confident that yesterday’s opening of a new Marks and Spencer food hall at the Fife Central Retail Park would not have a long-term impact on town-centre footfall.
The BID organisation, which represents town centre retailers including Marks and Spencer, has voiced concerns over out-of-town shopping developments in recent years, with traditional shopping precincts having been hit hardest by the recent recession and the continuing shift to online shopping.
However, with something of a revival under way, Mr Harvey said he remained confident shoppers would continue to spend their money in the town centre.
“It is business as usual here,” he said.
“We are disappointed that a direct competitor is opening at the retail park but the retailers here are aware of that.
“We are bringing the waterfront into the town centre and are also awaiting the outcome of our parking trial, and we are confident that will bring footfall down here.”
The new Marks and Spencer store opened its doors yesterday morning, a move that has brought more than 60 jobs to the town.
Trading exclusively in food, the company has repeatedly said the new shop will not jeopardise its sister site on High Street, which also sells clothing.
Cutting the ribbon was Raith Rovers player Rory McKeown and manager Ray McKinnon, with customers gathering early for a look inside the new store.
Among those was Ian Buchan, 29, who attended with his one-year-old son Brodie.
Mr Buchan said: “This a brilliant addition to Kirkcaldy and the whole community is really excited.
“It will be handy for everybody in the surrounding area.”