Published: Thursday, 9th October, 2008 12:30
Arsonists target council houses
By Peter Swindon
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Arsonists have targeted abandoned council houses twice in two days.
Four fire crews fought the first blaze for several hours before it was brought under control.
The row of properties in Rosewell Drive, Lochore, were left empty after tenants moved to new homes nearby.
They were set alight on Saturday 27th and Sunday 28th September, leaving one house with structural damage.
Thieves have also stripped the properties of pipes, paving slabs, water tanks and handrails, while flytippers are using the street as a dumping ground.
A senior councillor has demanded they’re razed to the ground, describing them as a “danger” to the public.
Councillor Willie Clarke is due to meet Police, Ore Valley Housing Association and Fife Council tomorrow (Friday).
The member for The Lochs told the Times he’ll be pressing for a quick decision.
“These buildings have become an attraction for young people who are starting fires, putting their safety and that of others at risk, and tying up vital services,” Cllr Clarke said. “These people have also raided the buildings, stripping them of anything of value. They must be worthless now.
“There hasn’t yet been a decision taken on these properties but I’ll be pressing for the process to be accelerated because there is a lot of concern amongst local residents.
“These buildings have the potential to become a bigger problem than the Meedies Neuk. They are a real danger.”
Fife Council this week confirmed demolition is one option.
Carole Fossett, Housing Project Officer, said: “We are meeting Ore Valley Housing Association and Fife Constabulary this Friday to discuss the options for the site, one of which is demolishing the properties.
“We understand that there is concern in the community about the vandalism that has occurred and we want to move forward quickly for the benefit of the community.
“Local councillors will be involved in discussions about the future of the site and the final decision on what happens will be made by Cowdenbeath Area Committee.”
The director of Ore Valley Housing Association, Andrew Saunders, declined to comment.
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