‘Towns are backbone of Scottish economy’ – major conference returns to Kirkcaldy
A major Scottish conference has returned to Kirkcaldy for the first time in a decade.
The 2026 Scotland’s Towns Conference brought keynote speakers and a host of delegates and organisations involved in town centre regeneration and placemaking across Scotland to the Adam Smith Theatre on Wednesday.
Tom McArthur MSP, Scottish Government’s Minister for Business and Fair Work was present to here the message that we cannot afford to overlook the increasing economic importance of the nation’s towns to Scotland’s economy.
It came from Kimberley Guthrie, chief officer of Scotland’s Towns Partnership (STP), who said successful, sustainable local communities are the backbone to developing economic growth across many sectors.
Mr McArthur was joined by Councillor David Ross, leader of Fife Council, as the conference - hosted by broadcaster Rona Dougall - also highlighted the importance of community action and innovation.
STP designed the event – the first to be held in Kirkcaldy since 2016 – to showcase how connecting policy, investment, local leadership and innovation can support thriving towns and resilient communities.
Ms Guthrie said: “The importance of towns and local economics to national success has never been greater. None of us can afford to overlook this.
“The Scottish Government’s incoming Community Wealth Building legislation further underpins the fact that vibrant, thriving local communities are the backbone of the national economy.
“For too long, towns have been taken for granted and, at times, overlooked. Today, however, there is a growing collective ambition to change that. We have a strong foundation of policy, partnership and infrastructure on which to build, providing the tools and momentum to drive sustained, coordinated and impactful action for our towns.
“Collectively we must all continue to build on this so that the ambitions of our communities can be delivered upon.”
Discussion points included the importance of localism, creating town centres where people live, work and visit, sustainable development, infrastructure, inclusive growth and funding - inspired by local, national and international innovations.
Mr McArthur said: “Strong town centres are central to community wellbeing and sustainable economic growth across Scotland, which is why the Scottish Government, through our regeneration funding programmes, is providing up to £52 million this year to help communities and partners turn long-term visions into reality.
“Across Scotland, communities are repurposing buildings, creating homes, supporting businesses and breathing new life into their town centres. These successes show what is possible.
“Our task now is to build on that momentum and continue creating town centres that are resilient, inclusive and fit for the future; places shaped by local people, built on community strengths and capable of supporting future generations.
“By working together with communities, local government and partners, we can ensure Scotland's town centres continue to thrive in the years ahead.”
Councillor Ross spoke of the importance of attracting investment, highlighting the importance of strong local leadership.
He said: “Towns are at the heart of our communities. They are places where people live, work, learn, shop and connect. They play a vital role in supporting local economies and improving quality of life.
“Across Fife and throughout Scotland, we are seeing the benefits that come from investing in our town centres, supporting local businesses and empowering communities to help shape their future. That is particularly relevant here in Kirkcaldy, where there is a shared determination to develop a town centre that meets the needs and ambitions of local people, businesses and visitors.
“Through continued investment, partnership working and community involvement, we have a real opportunity to create a more vibrant and sustainable future for the town.”
Mr Ross added: “Hosting Scotland’s Towns Conference in Kirkcaldy provides us all with an excellent opportunity to share ideas, learn from others and demonstrate the work being done to create vibrant, sustainable and inclusive places.”
The opening session also heard from Colin Miller who launched the Kirkcaldy Property Network last year to bring together professionals across the sector.