Improved Leven High Street among demands after rail consultation

Dozens of locals took part in a consultation organised by Levenmouth Rail Campaign (LMRC) where people were given the chance to say what they want to see happen in the area before, during and after the restoration of the rail line.

They identified several key areas including: where they want the stations and what facilities should be provided; good integration with all other forms of public transport including cycle and walking paths; parking provision; improvements to the High Street; and connections with all the other developments including the River Leven and Leven Whale projects.

All agreed that the line should be double tracked and electrification ready, the line should provide freight usage to Methil docks and for the Diageo operations, and that there should also be two stations, preferably enticingly designed with full access for the less mobile and provision for cycle storage and access.

Those who took part also agreed it should be easily accessed, connected to active travel routes and have changing and toilet facilities.

Ample parking was seen as essential though it was acknowledged this might be a challenge. Suggestions included parking on the site of the old power station or possibly a ‘park and choose’.

Many stressed the importance of tidying up the appearance of the town centre and the removal or adaptation of derelict building.

A common comment was the partial removal of pedestrianisation along with possible canopy cover for the High Street. People wanted clear links to the promenade part of town and to the Coastal Path and Pilgrims’ Way.

A spokesperson for the campaign commented: “It is encouraging indeed to see so many suggestions coming from our local community though it is unfortunate this has had to be organised by the campaign and not by the authorities responsible.

“It’s particularly gratifying that people are taking an overall view of all the fantastic projects happening in our area and clearly understand that the huge sums involved – over £130m – mean that there needs to be a ‘big picture’ view of how this is all going to work.

“Perhaps that will be the role of Blueprint group but if that doesn’t happen then our local folk have demonstrated we’re perfectly capable of performing it ourselves.”