Plans to breathe new life into a vital part in Fife’s economy are gathering momentum.
Hillend and Donibristle industrial estate is recognised as an important employment and economic hub.
It accommodates more than 120 businesses and 2,000 employees from sole traders to international businesses and is seen as vitally important to the Fife economy, hosting seven of its top 100 businesses.
However, the estate evolved from a military airfield and is now showing signs of its age. There are vacant buildings, derelict areas and a danger it may become obsolete.
Given its importance in a strategic location near the Forth bridgehead area, and the businesses on site, Fife Council has been working with consultants and businesses to consider a pragmatic and co-ordinated regeneration action plan to secure its future.
Lesley Laird, the executive member for business, enterprise, economy and planning, said the project highlighted the need for coordinated action from both the council and businesses to improve the environment with new signs, branding and landscape improvements as well as possible solutions for ongoing estate maintenance and options for the redevelopment of those areas affected by dereliction and lack of investment.
“Consideration is also being given to support complementary uses within the estate to encourage investment, creating an interactive environment with a running track and low maintenance landscaping such as an orchard and allotments and consideration of the development of a Business Improvement District.
“It’s important that all businesses are aware that they are invited to join a steering group to co-ordinate and drive delivery of the plan. Working in partnership with business and all stakeholders is a key priority for the council.”
She said that the focus of the project is to protect employment within the estate by providing a masterplan to secure its future for another generation.
Feedback on a draft report was gathered from representatives from the business community, land and property owners, developers, local and community councillors and council officers as key findings and recommendations for the estate were presented and discussed with consultants, yellow book.
The feedback will be incorporated into the consultant’s final report to be presented to councillors after the summer recess.