Kirkcaldy’s long abandoned former ABC Cinema is set to be demolished.

Fife Council has appointed BAM Construction to do the work and finally bring down the building which closed more than 20 years ago, and has since fallen into an appalling state of disrepair

The first steps were taken this week with letters being sent to local residents and businesses advising them of the plans - but there is no timescale on how long the work will take, how much it will cost, or the impact it will have on the High Street.

The cinema was a go to place for generations of film fans, but closed its doors in 200 following its acquisition by Odeon. Since then it has been left to decay - the huge volume of pigeon guano alone makes it extremely hazardous to enter.

Cinema one - the biggest of the three - in the ABC has been left to decay (Pic: Fife Free Press)

placeholder image — Cinema one - the biggest of the three - in the ABC has been left to decay (Pic: Fife Free Press)

The council has appointed Hollis Building Surveyors to carry out an internal and external condition survey of the properties which are wrapped around the building. They are set to begin on May 25 and should take around two weeks to complete.

In a letter to owners, Martin Cooper, construction director at BAM, said: “This will be a visual inspection of the built fabric within your flat/office/business including stairwells

“This will provide photographic evidence in a report which will be shared with you prior to works commencing on site. There is nothing to be concerned about - this survey is there to protect all involved.” Mr Cooper said a public meeting will be held before demolition work gets underway at which it will outline its plans.