TWO local MSPs have called on Fife Council to make the most of its funding allocation from the Scottish Government’s £50 million Town Centre Fund.

Announced by SNP Finance Secretary Derek Mackay during his budget statement, the new fund aims to drive local economic growth by helping town centres fund projects such as re-purposing buildings for retail, business and community enterprise, while improving access and infrastructure.

Annabelle Ewing, MSP for Cowdenbeath and Jenny Gilruth, the Glenrothes and Mid Fife member who represents Kinglassie, hope that the £4m+ Fife has received will help revitalise town centres.

It has now been confirmed that Fife Council will receive £4,355,000 from the new ring-fenced fund.

Commenting, Ms Ewing said: “This funding announcement can help transform town centres in Fife, such as those in my constituency.

“The health of our town centres is vital to the economic and cultural life of our communities – and this new investment can make a real difference".

The MSP added: “With well over £4million coming to Fife, the Council must now ensure that the money is spent wisely so that our local town centres reap the benefits of this huge investment.

“The SNP’s Town Centre Fund is part of a wider package of business support measures that will help drive economic activity in the Cowdenbeath constituency, helping give our local high streets a welcome boost.”

Jenny Gilruth commented: "“This funding announcement can help transform town centres in such as Glenrothes and Leven.

“The health of our town centres is vital to our communities – and this new investment can make a real difference.

“Fife Council must now ensure that the £4.3 million is spent wisely so that this huge investment allows local communities to eap the rewards..

"We want to see the investment help drive economic activity in Fife.”

Convener of Fife Council's Tourism, Strategic Planning and Transportation Committee, Cllr Altany Craik, said: “Our recent budget called for more funding from Scottish Government to support our efforts and I am pleased this has been answered with this announcement.

“The Scottish Government has recognised the importance of investing in Fife’s town centres, with Scotland’s largest allocation of over £4.3m for Fife.

“The funding will be used to support town centres in becoming more diverse and sustainable, increase footfall through local improvements and partnerships which will encourage town centres to become more vibrant, creative, enterprising and accessible places".

He added: “Across the UK, town centres are facing persistent and serious challenges as consumer behaviour and economic changes cause difficulties in filling retail units and higher vacancy rates. This is not a Fife issue – it is a UK issue".

Both Cowdenbeath and Lochgelly's town centres have received improvements over the past four years and further works would be welcomed by Cowdenbeath Area Committee.