THE future of several lock-up garages in Dalgety Bay remains unknown after the approval of controversial plans to build 44 homes in the area.

Fife Council approved the planning application and the decision has been met with dismay by local councillors.

Inverkeithing’s Muir Homes were granted permission by the council to develop a brownfield site in Donibristle Industrial Estate.

Alice McGarry, Inverkeithing and Dalgety Bay councillor, is disappointed that the application was approved as the housing firm envisages developing an access road through Bouprie Rise and Otterston Grove.

To build the access road, a decision would have to be made on the future of a number of lock-up garages, which would need to be sold or demolished if the plan is to go ahead.

Ms McGarry told the Press: “These are very well-kept garages that are in great contrast to others in West Fife.

"These garages are actually a real asset to the area. It’s a busy area and the garages provide extra parking. When people are getting home from work you see how busy it can get. 

“It really changes the ethos of the people who live there. They wanted to live in a quiet area where their kids can run about safely.

"They’re entitled to what they bought into. They bought their houses with that knowledge in mind. The area is simply not suitable for that access. 

“I would hope that other local councillors would see that it’s not the right thing to do. Selling the garages to begin with is bad, let alone providing an access road for the development of 44 new homes.”

In the report submitted to the west planning committee, the council’s planning officer stated: “The loss of garages would be a consideration for the council and it would be their responsibility to make alternative provision for those that currently use them.

"They have indicated informally that this is possible. The use of the garages as parking has been assessed within the TA and it was concluded that their loss would have no detrimental impact on parking provision.

"The sale of the garage reserve site would be a separate matter from the planning process.”

Muir Homes have yet to make an offer on the garage land.

A spokesperson said: “Muir Homes are delighted to have been granted planning consent by Fife Council to build 44 family homes in Dalgety Bay.

"We expect the consent to be issued shortly and will be seeking an early meeting with the council to discuss a range of matters, which will allow a start on site later this year.”

The Press told you earlier this month that neighbouring firms feared noise from activities on the site could lead to complaints from local residents.

Plans for the site, with Asda to the west, houses to the south and existing industries to the north and east, attracted 75 objections and six letters of support.