The demolition of a Glenrothes eyesore will pave the way for a transformation of the town centre, The Courier can reveal.
The former Co-Op department store is to be pulled down under plans to be put forward by the operators of the Kingdom Shopping Centre.
Riddled with asbestos, the space has fallen into disrepair and been cited as a huge deterrent for the development of new leisure and retail units.
However, The Courier understands demolition proposals will be put forward within weeks after centre operators, LaSalle Investment Management, reached an agreement with the Co-Op to terminate its lease on the site.
Councillor Bill Brown, chairman of Glenrothes area committee, said: “This is really exciting news for Glenrothes, which will totally rejuvenate the centre.
“I can’t wait to see the plans for the new development, which will bring the Kingdom Centre up to the standard you would expect for the 21st Century.
The Glenrothes Area Futures Group has called for a regeneration of the town centre for many years and has often stated its desire to see the east end of the shopping precinct redeveloped.
Councillor Altany Craik said: “This is one of the gateways to the town.
“It would make a great civic or leisure space for cafes and a nighttime economy.”