The UK high street set for £1.6m transformation with 'bold new design'

A £1.65 million transformation is set to "breathe new life" into a UK city's high street. Work on Dunfermline'shigh street will start next month and is due to last between 12 and 15 months.

The city square has been vacant since 1990, when the Co-op department store closed, but it will get a "bold new design" which will transform the area into two connected zones. One will be an event space for markets, performances, and gatherings, and the other will be an open lawn for "informal recreation". Councillor James Calder, convener of the Cityof Dunfermline area committee, said: "We're thrilled to see this project move forward with the appointment of Newlay as the contractor. This transformationwill breathe new life into Dunfermline High Street, creating a welcoming space for all members of our community to enjoy."

The plans have been discussed for years, and the design was approved in December 2021. The price for this project, originally set to be £800,000, has more than doubled since then.

The funding comes from Fife Council's capital programme, the Scottish Government's Place-Based Investment Fund, and the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.

A council statement added: "This project marks a significant milestone in transforming the long-vacant site into a vibrant, accessible public space for the community. For over 30 years, the site has remained empty, serving as a green space for the last two decades.

"Following the 2018 Dunfermline Charrette and extensive community feedback, it was decided to reimagine the space - not for business, but for people."

The derelict Co-op department store was bought by developer Alfred Stewart in 1999, but after he did nothing with the land, the council bought it in a compulsory purchase order for £3 million in 2006 and demolished the property.

Cllr Altany Craik, spokesperson for finance, economy and strategic planning, said: "Fife Council is investing in its communities; creating vibrant, inclusive places where people want to live, work and visit.

"By supporting regeneration, enhancing public spaces and enabling job creation, we're laying the foundations for long-term prosperity across Fife.

"Developing Dunfermline's city square is a key example of how we're harnessing the city's new status to unlock opportunities and deliver real benefits for local people."