Leven High Street is still “a nightmare” to walk along six months after two major fires, it has been claimed.
High Street resident Larry Keillor said it was difficult for people with mobility issues and parents with prams to move past hoardings erected in the wake of the November incidents.
And he added: “It’s a disgrace. The people of Leven don’t deserve this.”
The fences are designed to protect the public from dangerous buildings and rubble.
Some were put up after Poundstretcher was destroyed on November 8, and the remains were left in a precarious condition.
And another set was erected when a former jeweller’s shop was hit just three weeks later.
However, it is believed a wrangle between various insurance companies has held up repairs and clean-up work.
‘I feel depressed on Leven High Street’
Mr Keillor said the narrow pedestrian walkway created opposite the Poundstretcher site involved negotiating steps.
“For people with mobility scooters or prams it’s a nightmare,” he said.
“We were promised these boards would be moved back but it hasn’t happened.”
And the 72-year-old added: “Poundstretcher and the buildings next to it were demolished ages ago.
“The rubble was cleared but they’ve left piles of wood and the fences are still there.
“To be quite honest, I just feel depressed walking along the High Street now.
“Nobody is coming out and telling us the right story and it’s hopeless trying to get somebody to do something.”
High Street hoardings could be moved by end of May
The hold-up has delayed the reopening of the Together Levenmouth Hub, which adjoined Poundstretchers.
And other High Street businesses are said to be concerned about the ongoing disruption.
Fife Council’s Levenmouth area committee chairman Colin Davidson said he was “fully sympathetic”.
But he said he had been assured the hoardings would be moved back by the end of this month.
This would create more room for pedestrians and wheelchair users.
Plans to landscape site for community use
Mr Davidson added, however: “The buildings don’t belong to the council.
“They are privately-owned and there are several insurance companies involved.
“They have a duty of care and they are erring on the side of caution.
“Officers are in frequent dialogue with building owners, insurance companies and demolition contractors.”
Meanwhile, plans are already in place to landscape the Poundstretcher site once it is cleared to provide an area for community use.
And a £315,000 funding package has been agreed for future High Street improvements.
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