Demolition plan revealed for block of flats in Kirkcaldy

Structural issues are behind the move which was approved at this week’s meeting of Kirkcaldy area committee.

The proposal centres on demolishing the flats at 61-103 Howard Place, Dysart.

Councillors agreed to knock them down, and develop the plot along with the existing gap site.

They also agreed to transfer remaining tenants to suitable accommodation, and buy eight of the privately owned properties.

They will pay compensation for loss and disturbance.

The issue affects two blocks of flats.

The first consists of 10 two- bedroom maisonettes, and the second has 12 two and three- bedroom maisonettes.

Both blocks have communal stairwells and open walkways to access the properties.

A report before councillors showed that of the 22 properties, eight are currently privately owned, three are being used as temporary accommodation, nine are occupied by Fife Council tenants and two are empty.

The report added: “The majority are in favour of the proposals, with only a few members of the wider community raising concerns about disruption should demolition and redevelopment take place.”

It continued: “Unlike some other regeneration areas, there are no anti-social behaviour issues or unlettable properties at Howard Place.

“Concerns are solely related to the structural integrity of the buildings and the financial viability of undertaking works to prolong their lifespan.

“The area remains popular and many of the existing residents have expressed a desire to remain in Dysart, although most would prefer houses with individual gardens and fewer communal spaces. “

The structural problems in both blocks were first identified several years ago.

The report said that temporary repairs and engineer surveys have taken place since then, but the blocks don;t have a clever future.

Properties on the adjacent gap site were demolished approximately 10 years ago, but the site has not been redeveloped due to financial considerations.

Councillors backed the report which envisaged demolition in 2024 and redevelopment the following year.

Councillor Rod Kavanagh (SNP, Kirkcaldy East) welcomed the plan and said: “The condition of the blocks means demolition is the only viable option.

"Consultation has been extensive and done with great sensitivity.

“This is a good opportunity to get rid of sub standard accommodation which, I was astounded to learn, won awards when it was built.”

Councillor Ian Cameron, committee convener – and whose ward covers Dysart – also welcomed the plan.

He said: “There are issues for elderly accommodation in Dysart.

"People have been reluctant to move because there aren’t options., This will allow more people to stay in Dysart.”The timescales are disappointing, but the efforts trying to keep people in Dysart are welcome.”

The committee was told a number of people expressed a preference to stay in Dysart but they aware of stock limitations, so several who needed larger properties recognised they may haver to leave the area.

which can cause issues with schooling.

The council said it would try to offer to decant people out for a temporary period and offer to bring them back if it can to homes on the new build sites – but it recognised this would mean two moves and some disruption, and may not be suitable for all.