Regenerated Lochgelly named most improved town in Scotland

Success hailed as a team effort as it leaves ‘dismal’ past behind

From carbuncles to crowning glory, Lochgelly has been named Scotland’s most improved town.

The former mining town secured the title at the Scottish Urban Regeneration Forum awards ceremony in Glasgow.

It beat off stiff competition from Linwood, Gourock and Auchterarder to secure the accolade.

It is a remarkable transformation in fortune for the town which has been shortlisted in the past for the unenviable Plook on the Plinth award for most dismal town and in 2004 was dubbed “Britain’s worst place to live”.

But years of regeneration has captured the award delivered by SURF in partnership with the Government to celebrate the achievements of initiatives which address physical, social and economic challenges.

Accepting the award were Hazel Cross, Fife Council; Helen Ross, Lochgelly Community Development Forum, and Brian Schultz representing Lochgelly Community Council.

Mr Schultz said he was “overwhelmed” and delighted that Lochgelly, and the hard work of organisations and volunteers, was finally getting the recognition it deserves.

Ms Ross said the community had worked hard since 2000, adding: “And we are not finished yet”.

She cited the Lochgelly Community Action plan, which will see more community-led work carried out with projects under four themes; community activities and facilities, environment and heritage, infrastructure and sustainable Lochgelly.

“Already these groups are making a positive difference in the town with the heritage group giving a focus to the heritage of Lochgelly with five storyboards planned for the Lochgelly heritage trail.”

The chairman of Cowdenbeath Area Committee, Mark Hood, added: “For Lochgelly to win this prestigious award just proves that the hard work and determination of everyone involved in improving Lochgelly is paying off.

“The community and all of the key agencies and partners have shown sustained commitment and resilience in taking plans for Lochgelly forward and it fully deserves the title.”

Ms Cross said: “The Lochgelly community is strong and determined and has delivered a range of community-led projects throughout the town over the years and I know Lochgelly will continue to be successful.”

The community and all of the key agencies and partners have shown sustained commitment and resilience. MARK HOOD