COMMENT

JONATHAN WATSON

Space to live seems to have come at the expense of community spirit

This could be a defining year for Glenrothes.

Though one has to acknowledge the irony of a “new town” celebrating its 70th anniversary, it is easy to forget just how far it has come in its comparatively short life.

I grew up in Glenrothes and while I’m used to the jibes about roundabouts from my colleagues, these same people tend to forget how clean and green the town is compared to almost every other in Scotland.

It is certainly a point not lost on the judges of Beautiful Scotland and Britain in Bloom.

However, I will concede that while the wide open spaces and flower beds may look attractive, they have done little to promote social cohesion.

Space to live seems to have come at the expense of community spirit and it is interesting to hear Mr Mowat sees this as a major obstacle.

However, everyone likes an excuse to celebrate and if Go Glenrothes can develop ideas that capture the imagination, there’s every reason to believe these distinct neighbourhoods can finally share a pride in their town.