LOCHGELLY Community Council has formally objected to proposals for more than 300 homes which "poses a threat to the fabric of our community". 

At a meeting it outlined its opposition to the housebuilding plans of Omnivale / Strawsons to the south of The Avenue.

A spokesperson said: “Fife Council have sold this community short again!  We are calling on all residents to stand together in opposition to this development."

Planning permission in principle to build 145 homes was agreed in June and the following month an application was submitted by Omnivale for phase two and another 190 units on an adjacent plot.

They would follow the large developments by Lomond Homes and Easy Living, "both of which have put the infrastructure, education and health services in the town under unbearable strain".

Housebuilding is focused at the eastern and southern boundaries of the town -identified as part of Fife Council’s strategy. 

The community council has formed a planning and development sub committee and a spokesperson said: “The proposed development, which aims to construct at least 335 homes, will further disrupt and strain our infrastructure.

“The community council believes that this development poses a threat to the fabric of our community.

"The influx of a large number of homes will not only alter our landscape but also impact the availability of essential services, such as schools, healthcare and public transport. 

“Building homes in this area could jeopardize not only the properties constructed but also the safety of current residents and future occupants.

“The potential for subsidence due to shallow mine workings or known sinkholes is a serious local issue that cannot be overlooked and the rectification of these known issues (called grouting) may lead to further flooding issues in the community and onto the main arterial route, the A92.

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“We are engaging the developers, Fife Council and perhaps appealing to the Scottish Government to support our concerns and to ensure that all safety regulations are upheld.”

The spokesperson continued: “The output of the 2010 local charette made reference to new primary/secondary schools, a new health centre, better public transportation links and relocation of the existing train station. 

“Instead of this, we are getting some portacabins for the primary school, some cycle lanes and a contribution of £300 per house for 'public art'! Really!

"We should be asking if the public art contribution is the same priority as new schooling or a new health centre, or how much does the developer give from each house for education and health centre?"

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He added: "Community support is crucial in voicing our concerns to local authorities and ensuring that safety regulations are upheld.”

The community council will organise a town hall meeting to discuss the objections and decide on the best course of action.

The spokesperson added: “Your voice matters - together, we can advocate for a safer, more sustainable and properly funded future for our town.

“We urge local officials and developers to reconsider this project in light of the community’s wellbeing and the evident safety risks.

"Our goal is to protect our residents and maintain the integrity of our town.”

The date and time of the public meeting is to be decided.

Service manager Alastair Hamilton commented: "The sites to the south of Lochgelly have been allocated for residential development since 2012.

"We don't currently have any planning applications for development of the sites. However if this changes, the local community will have the opportunity to comment and contribute as part of the planning process."