The developers, comprising Persimmon Homes, Headon Developments and VICO Properties, have now commenced with a comprehensive 3 week site investigation exercise which will further assist in informing the design of the development and the associated relief road.

The findings of the site investigation will be submitted to Fife Council along with the subsequent planning application.

Furthermore, a community groups’ workshop involving key local stakeholders and interest groups was held on Thursday 5th March in consultation with the Community Council to discuss important aspects of the development such as access roads, pedestrian and cycle routes, a new primary school and public open space.

Feedback from the workshop, the site investigation report and ongoing technical reports will be used to add the next level of detail to the master plan.

“We had an excellent turnout at the workshop with representatives from a wide range of the town’s community groups”, said David Wardrop, Planning consultant for Cupar North.

Over 25 representatives from Community Council, ABCD, Cupar in Bloom, Sustainable Cupar, Castlehill and Kilmaron schools Parent Councils, North East Fife Preservation Society and Friends of Adamson Hospital all took part in a more detailed discussion on matters arising from the consultation event last October.

The groups focussed on transportation; community facilities, drainage and flood risk; and ecology, landscape and green networks with a positive exchange of ideas and views.

David added: “We will provide a summary of the points made on the night and distribute this to the groups ahead of our second public consultation event.”

A further public consultation event will be held in late April, at which more detailed proposals as well as more comprehensive technical information will be made available to residents.

David concluded: “We are delighted with the progress made to the master plan and the response from community groups has been excellent, any feedback at this stage will help us in formulating a plan that is attractive to the town.

“Over 600 residents and community stakeholders were present in October for the first public consultation event and we would encourage all to attend in April so that the views of the community can be taken into consideration on key aspects in the development.”

A Cupar North website exists to allow the community to view the proposal as it evolves and to leave comments during the consultation periods. This can be accessed via www.cuparnorth.co.uk and details of dates associated with the next Community Consultation event in April will be advised in due course.