Kirkcaldy could be in line for a major jobs boost after plans were unveiled for a new hotel and restaurant.
Premier Inn has submitted proposals to construct a 60-bedroom hotel in the north of the town, potentially creating dozens of jobs.
A planning application to build a restaurant adjacent to the hotel has also been submitted for the site at Ostlers Way, creating further job opportunities if approved.
News of the proposed development at the John Smith Business Park has been warmly welcomed by Alistair Bruce, chairman of Fife Tourism Partnership, who said the firm’s plans could provide a huge boost to visitor numbers in the area.
“A new hotel that suits both business and leisure visitors is a welcome boost for tourism in mid-Fife.
“Increasingly we see that people who come to the area for business are keen to come back again to explore more of what Fife has to offer.
“The local tourist association for Kirkcaldy and mid-Fife is working hard to attract visitors to come all year round and to stay longer for each visit, so a range of accommodation options is important for tourists.”
While Kirkcaldy is home to several hotels, large chains have tended to avoid the Lang Toun, focusing instead on developing sites at Glenrothes and Dunfermline.
The decision to target Kirkcaldy will be seen as a vote of confidence in the town economy and the John Smith Business Park.
It is also thought the location’s close proximity to the A92 could make it attractive to business users.
While no details have emerged as to which firm would take over the restaurant, the applicant behind the proposal, Carter Lauren, has previously operated on behalf of Brewers Fayre, the Whitbread-owned chain that also operates Premier Inn.
The decision will be put before Fife councillors in the coming months, while work could begin on site, if the plans are approved, before the end of the year.