The Courier & Advertiser (Fife Edition)
Improvements to Kennoway shopping centre on the cards
More than 250 people had their say on how to spend money which would help to regenerate town
The people have spoken – and ambitious plans to rejuvenate the shopping area in Kennoway are on top of their wish list.
More than 250 local people had their say on how to spend money improving Bishop’s Court.
People have voted online as well as posting their choices in local shops, the health centre, library, schools and business premises.
The My Bishop’s Court consultation was organised by Fife Council to have Kennoway residents prioritise three options for improvements.
The majority of people who voted opted for redesigning the parking and creating new spaces around Bishop’s Court.
This included improving signs, better access and the installation of cycle racks.
Second on the wish list was a scheme to improve the appearance of houses and shop fronts.
And in third place was a desire to create more outdoor seating.
It is part of a bigger picture of ways to regenerate the town. Earlier this year locals launched a town community action plan produced by a steering group with the support of the Coalfields Regeneration Trust which gave a £25,000 budget.
The plan calls for improvements to Bishop’s Court, the creation of a community garden and feasibility study into a floodlit astroturf sports and games area.
Fife Council took up one of the action points, which was all about engaging the community in improvements to Bishop’s Court.
SNP councillor Ken Caldwell, convener of Levenmouth area committee, said: “I’m pleased so many people got involved and had their say, voting for what was important to them – that’s local democracy in action.
“These improvements will help regenerate the area for all to enjoy.”
Levenmouth community manager David Paterson added that this approach, known as participatory budgeting, was a recommendation from the Fairer Fife Commission.
“PB gets people involved and gives them a direct say in where public money can make a difference to their community.”
I’m pleased so many people got involved and had their say, voting for what was important to them.
KEN CALDWELL