Thornton Road Closure: Financial support announced for businesses impacted by major disruption of bridge works
Businesses affected by prolonged disruption linked to the major Network Rail works in Thornton are to receive targeted financial support from Fife Council.
Members of the council’s Cabinet committee agreed to introduce a time-limited Business Resilience Support Scheme at a meeting on Thursday.
The scheme has been developed in recognition of the exceptional and sustained impact the works are expected to have on local businesses, particularly those reliant on passing trade and customer access. It is designed to provide targeted support during a period of disruption that goes beyond what would normally be anticipated.
The move comes as the main road through Thornton is to be completely closed for five months later this year as part of Network Rail’s works to electrify the Fife Circle line.
The bridge has to be taken down and then rebuilt up to 30cm higher to accommodate the work electrifying the line.
A single lane closure will be in place from now until October when the road will close completely until March 2027 when one lane will re-open until the project ends next July.
An original plan, which would have seen a complete road closure for 14 months, sparked a major backlash from local residents and businesses, forcing Network Rail to come up with this latest schedule of works.
Councillor Altany Craik, Fife Council’s spokesperson for finance, economy and strategic planning, said: “This is a temporary and exceptional intervention, reflecting the unique circumstances faced by the community.
"Alongside the scheme, additional support will be available through business advice, local promotion and engagement activity, helping to encourage footfall and support trading throughout the works.
"We recognise that the disruption in Thornton is unlike anything local businesses would normally be expected to manage, and that it will have a real impact on livelihoods.
"With the road closed for around five and a half months and disruption expected to last up to 14 months in total, we recognise this will effectively split Thornton in two and create significant challenges for local traders.”
Further details on how businesses can access the scheme will be shared directly with those affected in due course.
The news of support has been welcomed by two local councillors.
Councillor Lynda Holton said: “Councillor Wilson and I have been pushing all along for financial support for Thornton businesses affected by the impending road closure and I am delighted that we have been able to secure this for them.
"I know it will come as a huge relief to local business owners who have been wracked with worry about how they will cope.”
Councillor Daniel Wilson added: “This will be a lifeline for Thornton’s businesses through the tough months.
"Councillor Holton and I are extremely proud of the significant role we have played in securing the reduced timescale for the closure and the support package that will be available for businesses.”