Retail plan for long-standing Kirkcaldy pub

One of Kirkcaldy’s best known pubs could soon be closed to make way for a new development.

The Alpha Bar is the subject of a new planning application to change its use.

Owners of the pub, on Hayfield Road, are in talks with a leading health care company to change the use of the building.

King Enterprises has applied to Fife Council for permission to go ahead.

https://www.fifetoday.co.uk/news/people/timetable-kirkcaldy-sheriff-court-re-opening-revealed-2869169

https://www.fifetoday.co.uk/lifestyle/food-and-drink/kirkcaldys-town-centre-market-returns-week-2868578

It has owned the Alpha Bar – once at the hub of the region’s thriving pub darts scene – for 26 years, and, in common with many pubs, is facing a decline in the number of customers.

It was refurbished five years ago, but numbers have continued to fall.

The company wants to call time on the pub and move in a new direction.

A supporting statement submitted to the local authority revealed it was in talks with a major health care company which is looking to move into the building.

It works closely with the nearby Victoria Hospital and local surgery, and see this as an ideal location within walking distance.

King Enterprises also stressed no staff would lose their jobs if the bar closed. They would be transferred to other pubs.

It added: “This proposal is an opportunity to bring long term investment into the area as well as creating new jobs.”

The application will be considered by councillors in due course.

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