A question mark hangs over the future of Cupar’s court buildings as the end nears for the town’s justice role.
Fife Council shares the County Buildings with the Scottish Court Service but remains in the dark over plans for the extensive part owned by the courts.
Requests for information over the last few weeks have gone unanswered. The court is one of 11 around the country expected to close next May following a review of the SCS’s estate.
Property services lead officer Sharon Ward told the council’s North East Fife area committee: “There has been no formal correspondence received by the council notifying the intention of the Scottish Court Service with regard to the accommodation occupied by them at County Buildings.
“Given that the proposal needs formal ratification by the Scottish Parliament then perhaps that might be the reason for the delay.”
The SCS shares the cost of repairs and utilities charges for the common parts of the County Buildings with the council. Ms Ward also outlined the anticipated impact on the wider community.
She said: “There are a significant number of legal practices based in and around the town centre whose business is likely to be adversely affected.
“Closure may therefore generate an increase in the amount of vacant business space in the town centre area through a reduction in the number of legal practices operating in the town.
“The departure of court services may also create an adverse effect on local retail businesses whose customer base will reduce both due to the lower employment in the area and from those visiting the court.
“This casual but sustained business will transfer to Dundee instead.”
An SCS spokesman refused to comment on plans for the Cupar property, pictured, which include the court room, ancillary accommodation and offices of the sheriff clerk and procurator fiscal, but said: “The Scottish Court Service has had no recent contact from Fife Council relating to the disposal of the court building at Cupar.
“We would be happy to enter into discussion with officials from Fife Council should they wish any clarification.”