Raith Gates and Appin House will be entirely replaced to bring them into line with modern standards, particularly regarding bathing facilities and storage.

A third priority case in Glenrothes, Alan McLure, will also be tackled and the remaining seven local authority-owned homes will then be assessed as part of a 'phased programme' of works.

The multi-million-pound investment was agreed by councillors on Monday and a timescale for construction is to be drawn up promptly by Fife Council.

Social work chairman Tim Brett said: "There is no suggestion that our homes are bad, but this is about the future."

Agreement was made by elected members that unlike many local authorities across the UK, Fife will retain control of its care homes, instead of handing them to the private sector.




Councillors have spent months investigating the state of the Council's 10 care homes, speaking with staff, residents and relatives. A 'Best Value Review Group' scored each home for its condition and suitability and agreement was made that replacement was necessary.

Speaking at Monday's committee meeting, councillor Ross Vettraino said it was 'vital' the Council retained control of its care homes, insisting it showed commitment to serving the community.

He said: "The Council can then provide the incentive to private care homes to do the same.

''I think we are offering a truly flexible recommendation that takes care of everyone."

• To read the full story pick up your copy of the Fife Free Press first thing Thursday morning.