AT LEAST 15 new jobs could be created in Kelty if fresh plans for a new Co-op store in the village are given the green light.

The company is seeking permission to erect a new shop on land next to the Ex-Servicemen’s Club in Cocklaw Street to replace its existing premises in Main Street.

The development would see an investment in excess of £1.75m and would help to sustain existing jobs and create new posts because of its larger size.

A report by the company's planning agents said the proposals demonstrated the Co-op's "continued commitment and significant investment" in Kelty and the wider Fife area.

"The Co-op business is focussed on the provision of convenience shopping facilities and, as such, the application seeks to facilitate the delivery of a new Co-op convenience shop to offer an improved convenience shop for the residents of Kelty," explained the planning statement.

"The shop will open seven days a week for the daily shopping needs of residents, on-site customer car parking will be provided, and the store will support approximately 15-20

full and part-time jobs.

"The introduction of a new and larger Co-op in Kelty will also help support the retention of all of the jobs associated with the existing Co-op store and bolster this through the

employment of more staff at the new larger store with a large proportion likely to come from within Kelty or surrounding area."