FAST broadband is coming to Cowdenbeath but the new pavements of High Street will not be touched by operators Virgin Media.

The SUSTRANS investment in the town's High Street included total refurbishment of the battered paving which run up and down the retail hub and while welcoming the arrival of the fast broadband Councillor Alex Campbell is concerned that there should be no excavations done on the recently revamped area.

It is expected that Virgin's team will start their installation, as part of Project Lightning Cowdenbeath, in Broad Street this week, which will see footpaths excavated and pre-bundled micro ducts laid to allow connection of street cabinets which will make the connections made to each house.

A Virgin Media spokesperson said: “Virgin Media will begin its network expansion in Cowdenbeath this week to bring ultrafast broadband speeds to thousands of homes and businesses.

"We will be working closely with Fife Council, particularly the Roads team, to minimise disruption with all residents and businesses being notified ahead of any work commencing in their respective area.”

Councillor Campbell was totally welcoming of the news but stressed that no work on High Street can involve damage to the brand new pavements.

He said: "I was at a meeting last week with Virgin Media representatives and they understood the situation.

"A lot of investment has gone into the High Street and the new pavements are an outstanding feature and we cannot afford this to be damaged by any excavations in connection with this project.

"The Virgin Media people certainly seemed to realise that the installation of the broadband needs to be tackled in a sensitive manner."

Virgin Media have been liaising with community groups in the town and their Community Liaison Team is to be on hand to answer residents' questions and concerns.

Once the Cowdenbeath project is completed Virgin Media will move into Lochgelly to install the fast broadband there and Benarty and Kelty will follow down the line.