The plans, submitted by Aberdeenshire-based housing developer Kirkwood Homes, in partnership with Balcarres Estate, would see the construction of 50 new high quality homes, 15 of which will be affordable, on land south of Main Street in Colinsburgh.

The application, which has been recommended for approval by council planners, is set to go before Fife Council’s North East Planning Committee on 14 February 2024.

Following constructive dialogue with Fife Council, the final proposals have required the introduction of a second vehicular access point on Mayfield Terrace, aimed at improving road safety by calming traffic speeds and prioritising active travel access.

The development, which will be a significant extension of the Colinsburgh community, would also see investment in the existing play park and open landscape spaces to the south of the site.

Dialogue is ongoing with Kingdom Housing Association in respect of the delivery of the affordable housing element of the development.

Allan Rae, land director at Kirkwood Homes, said: “Following extensive engagement with Fife Council, we welcome the planners’ recommendation for our proposals that are set to be determined by the North East Planning Committee.

“We hope that the improvements to the scheme, which have been developed in partnership with Fife Council’s Roads Department, will yield substantial improvements in road safety for both the development and wider village, while also helping to promote safe walking and cycle links.

“Providing substantial investment into the village, we are committed to delivering this project that will not only enhance, but serve to improve the long-term vitality of this historic East Neuk village.

“We will continue to engage with the council and any interested members of the local community as we move towards determination of our application.”

Anthony Crawford from Balcarres Estate added: “We have been very impressed with the way Kirkwood Homes have engaged with local people and local interests throughout the planning process. We are confident that the proposed development will complement the village of Colinsburgh.”

The Aberdeenshire-based housing developer held an extensive consultation process for the proposals, including exhibition events held on October 25th and November 9th, 2022, as well as February 14th, 2023.

The feedback gathered at these events helped shape the final proposals that Kirkwood Homes submitted to Fife Council in June last year.