A DUNFERMLINE resident has slammed developers and Fife Council over plans for a hot-food takeaway next to their home.

The council had previously passed an application to build two shops on the site of former pub The Millers on the corner of Woodmill Road and Blacklaw Road.

However, East End Inn Ltd are now being accused of using “underhand and iniquitous” tactics after a change of use was passed for a takeaway, believed to be a Papa John’s pizza restaurant, instead. The land is next to the former Brucefield Hotel, which has now been converted into flats, with one homeowner left furious at the change.

Wishing to remain anonymous, they said: “We moved in to the flat after falling in love with it and knowing about the units but assured that they were Class 1 and due to be shops.

“The nature in which they approached the change of use application (before either of the units were complete or open) is underhand and iniquitous. The fact that the unit has now been changed from Class 1 to 3 sets a worrying precedent for what could occupy it in future years.

“A hot-food takeaway is the last thing a primarily residential area like this needs.”

The resident stated their disgust at Fife Council for allowing the change of use next to a listed building, adding: “The hypocrisy of a council purporting to adhere to the FIFEplan when they approve of a takeaway right next door to a Victorian building of architectural merit and in a residential area with an already inadequate and busy junction, is curious and questions need to be raised about why units perfectly suited for takeaways in the town centre remain empty and closed but this development is allowed to go ahead.

"It’s clear to me that Fife Council cares more about money and keeping developers sweet than adhering to a plan that was meant to enhance and safeguard the appearance, living conditions, and harmony of our streets and our towns.

“Our complaints; increased traffic, late opening hours, food odour, litter, potential anti-social behaviour; have barely been listened to, barely addressed and roundly dismissed.

“I feel very strongly – having looked through the email correspondence on the portal (Fife Council’s planning site) and having met the developers – that their opinion counts to the council more than ours does. The arrogance of this application, and my absolute disappointment in the integrity of the planning department, is profound.”

Council planner Ewen Campbell said: “This application was considered in line with all relevant development plan policies, and responses from everyone consulted were taken into account before any decision was made. As part of the planning conditions the applicant has agreed to take action to make sure any noise generated on site is within acceptable standards.”

East End Inn Ltd did not respond.