Fife Council to remove controversial barriers on streets in rural village

It comes after 160 people signed a paper petition and another 169 signed an online petition calling for changes to the Spaces for People measures.

Barriers were erected on parts of the town’s main road to create more space for pedestrians, however, it led to complaints from residents and businesses. Following a meeting with council officials, Councillor Linda Holt said the local authority has agreed to make changes.

“The officer agreed that the barriers outside Penmans could be removed, make a small adjustment to the barriers by the bus stop so the bus doesn’t have to swing out into the road and agreed to remove the barriers at the Bow Butts corner,” she said.

“These will be trialled in the little one-way street which leads to St Andrews Road from the school car park so that children and parents have more space to walk.

“The bigger good news is that the officer is also working on longer term plans to improve pedestrian and cyclist safety, and will look at the situation at the pinch point on Balcomie Road just before Denburn Wood.”

Cllr Holt thanked the Crail residents and businesses which backed her petition.

She added: “On Wednesday the programme was on the agenda of the North East Fife Area Committee, and it was agreed that any future proposals be fully consulted on in accordance with the National Standards for Community Engagement, which Fife Council is signed up to. Furthermore it was noted and endorsed that the three East Neuk councillors are of the view that the Co-op barriers be removed – so these should be going very soon.”