WEST FIFERS are being encouraged to take part in a series of events that will help shape the future of Dunfermline's town centre.

Design Dunfermline 2018 is inviting the public to a four-day event which looks to use the town's rich history to aid its growth, attract visitors and better serve those who live in Dunfermline as part of a three-year heritage programme.

The sessions are being held at the City Chambers and the Dunfermline Carnegie Library & Galleries this month on Wednesday 25, Thursday 26, Friday 27, and Sunday 29.

Participants will be asked to suggest and consider a number of projects with at least one to be taken forward and developed into a business plan and fundraising strategy.

The Design Dunfermline team took to the streets in March to gather the public's views in advance of the main event, talking to locals in the Kingsgate, Fire Station Creative and Dunfermline Carnegie Library & Galleries.

Pupils at Dunfermline, Queen Anne and Woodmill high schools also came up with their visions for the future.

The first public event starts at the City Chambers on Wednesday 25, where a welcome presentation will be given at 10.30am before the public are guided on a walk through the town and involved in a focused workshop.

The day ends with fast-paced tales from local heroes and informal discussion at Dunfermline Carnegie Library & Galleries.

Thursday comprises discussion in the award-winning venue on the community's vision and goals before scenario workshops and a summary of progress made in developing the ideas put forward.

The public will then get the chance to see the design team at work on the Friday from 1-3pm within the galleries.

The final session on Sunday will be an exhibition and summary from each of the events from 11.30am to 2.30pm.

The Press reported last month that Design Dunfermline 2018 secured funding of more than £300,000 from the Heritage Lottery Fund and the Scottish Government, with the total funding package including partner contributions amounting to nearly £450,000.

The local community will be assisted at the event by Sam Foster Architects in East Port, the company who won the tender to run the project.

Sam Foster has assembled a team that includes architect Oliver Chapman, well-known urban designer Kevin Murray as well as experts in quantity surveying, transport and landscape architecture.

He said: "These charrette-style events lead to tangible and practical outcomes but they’re also hugely enjoyable and inspiring.

"People in Dunfermline are passionate about where they live, and Kevin Murray, the facilitator, will harness that enthusiasm to make sure the sessions are lively as well as focused."

To book a place at one or more of the sessions, visit: http://designdunfermline.com2018.eventbrite.com