Cowdenbeath councillor backs bypass link to Lumphinnans

That's the view of local SNP councillor Bailey-Lee Robb who wants Fife Council to carry out a full assessment of a potential route around the town centre.

He said: "The congestion on Cowdenbeath High Street has long been a frustration for local people for far too long.

A new bypass, between Lumphinnans and the southern end of Cowdenbeath, would tackle congestion on High Street. (Image: Newsquest)

"An effective bypass could make a real difference - not just for traffic, but for the whole feel of our town centre.

"It could also spur on a renewed drive in the High Street.

"Beyond that, it could open up both the Lumphinnans and Cowdenbeath areas for new development and economic growth, which is exactly what our communities need."

Cllr Robb has written to Pam Ewen, the head of planning, climate and sustainability service at the council, in the hope that a bypass can be added into the local development plan, which maps out what can be built and where.

Cowdenbeath councillor Bailey-Lee Robb is the depute leader of the SNP Group on Fife Council. (Image: Fife Council)

The letter follows an exchange in the council chamber last month during which the proposal was raised, which could see a new road to link Lumphinnans to the southern end of Cowdenbeath, near the Morrisons store and the A92.

It's a route that has been suggested locally and is widely seen as offering the potential to significantly ease pressure on the town centre.

Cllr Robb said High Street has "long been identified as a significant bottleneck for vehicles and public transport passing through the town", with congestion affecting journey times and the general amenity for residents, businesses and visitors.

He added: "I've written to the head of planning to ask how this proposal can be formally assessed as part of the local development plan, and I'm calling on officers to engage meaningfully with the local communities and stakeholders on this.

A new bypass, between Lumphinnans and the southern end of Cowdenbeath, would tackle congestion on High Street. (Image: Newsquest)

"The level of frustration for real action is clear and it is time that bold action is reflected in the planning process."

The local development plan process provides a formal mechanism through which such proposals can be considered, assessed and potentially progressed.

Cllr Robb has requested that officers outline the steps required for a full assessment to be carried out.