Plans to breathe new life into Cowdenbeath Town House have been withdrawn amid economic uncertainty.
Coalfields Regeneration Trust (CRT) first revealed plans in July to buy the landmark from Fife Council but it has now been announced the plug has been pulled on the plan.
The local authority confirmed the deal was withdrawn, following months of discussions to transform the C-listed building into a new community kitchen and shop.
Despite lengthy periods of community engagement, investigation and preparation work the long-term future of the High Street building is now unclear.
Both parties agreed the current economic uncertainty had been a driving force behind the deal being withdrawn.
CRT – which works to support former mining towns – said other existing projects will continue in the local area.
Pauline Grandison, head of operations for the CRT in Scotland, said she is disappointed the deal could no longer go ahead.
‘Factors beyond our control’ lead to halt on Cowdenbeath Town House plans
She said: “We are disappointed that due to factors beyond our control, including the current economic uncertainty, we are unable to go ahead with our original plans for the Cowdenbeath Town House.
“We already deliver a number of programmes in the Cowdenbeath area including our Game On Scotland football programme, our Coalfields Worx employment scheme, as well as providing funding for local community groups.
“We would like to reassure people in Cowdenbeath that our existing projects will continue and that we are committed to expanding our work in the local community as and when suitable opportunities arise.”
The historic C-listed building has been empty since the council moved out in 2016, declaring it surplus to requirements.
Sarah Roxburgh, the authority’s community manager in Cowdenbeath, also confirmed other community projects will continue to be delivered in the local area.
‘We will continue to work in partnership to deliver community projects’
She said: “Following a lengthy period of community engagement, investigation and preparation work, Fife Council and Coalfields Regeneration Trust regret to advise that the plans for the purchase of Cowdenbeath Town House, and the provision of a community shop, have been withdrawn.
“This is due to a number of factors outside of our control, and the ever-increasing economic uncertainty and change.
“We will continue to work in partnership to deliver community projects and initiatives throughout the area.”
Conversation