THE next phase of the £1.6 million Kirkcaldy waterfront regeneration project is to get underway next week (July 11).
Fife-based firm, Gilmartins, will carry out the works which will focus on linking Kirkcaldy’s High Street to the waterfront down Charlotte Street and Nicol Street. Natural stone finishes will be used to match the existing streetscape on the High Street and those used in phase one of the waterfront works.
Councillor Ian Cameron, convener of the Kirkcaldy area committee, said, “As we’ve said before, over time the town centre has turned its back on the coastline, but this project will once again capitalise on one of the town’s greatest assets – its views across the Forth.
“The first phase of work included a new road layout between Tolbooth Street and High Street junction reducing the Esplanade to a single two-way road with the remaining space providing on-street parking and features to encourage more use of the outdoor space around key building such as the Kings Theatre. Pedestrian crossings at key points along the new single carriageway provide more pedestrian and cyclist friendly access to the waterfront and High Street. Accessible viewing platforms allow everybody to enjoy the views across the Forth and access the waterfront
“Feedback on phase 1 has been very positive and supportive of the plans to further develop the waterfront so that we can help it reach its full potential and continue to attract investment in the town and provide an attractive waterfront for residents and visitors.
“We hope the improvements, which I’m delighted to say are being carried out by the Fife contractor, Gilmartin, will encourage more use and give better opportunities to create a bustling waterfront with a retail offering, events and information on the views across the Forth.”
