Six large units for food and non-food retail and including a takeaway are to be built next door to the Tesco supermarket on South Road.

It is not yet known which retailers are likely to occupy the premises but it was previously indicated some well-known names had expressed interest.

The proposals by SC Cupar Ltd had been recommended for approval by planners, subject to a number of conditions.

Members of Fife Council’s north-east planning committee voiced concerns about road safety, particularly for children walking or cycling past the site to and from school, but gave unanimous approval.

Bryan Wilson, group development director of London and Scottish Developments, said the company was grateful for the committee’s decision and added: “We are looking forward to bringing this derelict site back to life with an exciting new retail development and will be making announcements about the programme and occupiers over the next few weeks.”

Access to the development will be provided from a new mini-roundabout on South Road and there will be 183 car parking spaces.