Kirkcaldy £20million: final chance to have say on masterplan that will shape Lang Toun

Residents have just a few days to add their voice to a debate which has gathered momentum over many months, and led to hundreds of people attending a host of drop-in sessions to view drawings which could showcase the future look of the Lang Toun.

Fife Council’s consultation ends on September 7 before it finalises its blueprint which includes how the UK Government’s £20million allocation from the Growth Mission Fund will be spent - and it fits into a much wider, long-term vision for Kirkcaldy.

An online survey closes for comment on September 7 and, after that, it will be over to councillors to have their say on the direction of travel.

A draft long-term plan for Kirkcaldy town centre and waterfront is expected to go before Fife Council's Cabinet Committee later this year, and a business case for investing the £20million dispatched to the UK Government for approval.

Last week’s final drop-in event, held at the Adam Smith Theatre, saw another big turnout, underlining the public interest in the road ahead for the Lang Toun.

They got to see the revised plans has on feedback from previous events held in the Old Kirk, Town House and Mercat Shopping Centre - leading to more options on the table than before.

There was a key focus on how the land which housed the now demolished multi-storey car parks - the Esplanade’s ugly sisters - could be used along with the large service bay which sat behind it out of sight and, largely, out of mind.

That project could also see the demolition of the back of the Mercat Shopping Centre to give the town’s waterfront a much more vibrant feel to it as much greater use is made of the outdoor space it offers.,

Councillor Ian Cameron, convener of Kirkcaldy Area Committee, said: "I'd like to thank everyone who took the time to come along to the event. It was great to see so many people engaged in the future of Kirkcaldy and willing to get involved in the conversation.

"The ideas on display have been shaped by what we've heard from local people and reflect the opportunities that many have told us they would like to see in the town.

“There is a real chance here to build on Kirkcaldy's strengths and create something that benefits residents, visitors and future generations.” He stressed no decisions have been made - and the council was still listening to local views.

“Everyone's feedback will help shape the next stage of the work as we develop proposals for the town centre and waterfront,” he said.

The survey can be accessed at our.fife.scot/transformingkirkcaldy

> Kirkcaldy will host the national Scotland’s Towns Conference at the Adam Smith Theatre on November 11.

The event was last held in town in 2016, and brings together leaders, practitioners and communities to explore how policy, investment, local leadership and innovation can deliver a shared ambition for a new future for Scotland’s towns.

The day will include panel discussions, workshops, and presentations as well as an exhibition showcasing possible solutions and opportunities for towns.