A near miss on Leven High Street has highlighted the need for caution around two fire-hit buildings, a councillor has said.
Scaffolding falling from another shop almost hit a woman walking in the pedestrianised town centre.
The shopper was not injured in Monday’s incident outside the former Cumming’s store.
However, Leven councillor Colin Davidson said it illustrated why areas of the High Street must remain fenced off until damaged buildings were demolished or made safe.
A pedestrian corridor is in place past the burnt-out Poundstretcher building following the fire there on November 8.
However, a second section of High Street remains completely off limits in the wake of Friday’s blaze at the former Masterton’s the jeweller building.
While pedestrian access could be created within a few days, Mr Davidson said engineers would have to be satisfied the area was safe.
“We have to be very, very careful,” he said.
“We had a near miss earlier this week that could have been very nasty.
“While it didn’t involve any of the buildings damaged in the fires, it shows what could happen.”
Crown Inn to stay closed until January
Three teenagers aged 17, 16 and 15 have been charged in connection with last Friday’s fire.
However, police and fire officers have so far been unable to enter the premises due to its precarious condition.
Meanwhile, the owner of the Crown Inn next door has revealed it will remain closed until January.
While the business is undamaged, the structural issues at the old jewellery shop mean it is not safe to open.
Owner Cath Bissett said she had made the decision with “a heavy heart”.
However, it is anticipated other businesses within the fenced-off area will be able to reopen soon.
In the meantime, Fife Council is working with affected traders in a bid to secure alternative premises.
And officers have promised better lighting and signage to direct shoppers to the businesses that are still trading.
Town centre plagued by youths before Leven fires
Businesses have this week spoken out about trouble in the town centre, claiming they were plagued by youths for years before last month’s fires.
And salon owner Pauline Gallagher fears ongoing anti-social behaviour will make people think twice about opening in Leven.
Police have promised more CCTV and extra patrols over the festive season.
And they pointed out complaints about anti-social behaviour in Levenmouth have actually fallen by 80% in the last few years.
Officers have been unable to identify the cause of the Poundstretcher fire and no charges have been brought.
Fife Council has issued a demolition order and work to bring the building down must begin by December 13.
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