IT’S hoped Dunfermline’s open spaces will get the attention they need with a jobs boost of 10 extra Fife Council staff.

The Parks, Street and Open Spaces team have been under considerable pressure over the last few years with reduced staff numbers and ever-reducing budgets.

Councillor Helen Law made the announcement at the City of Dunfermline area committee last week, promising a total of 10 extra staff would be in place by next Spring.

Some staff have already been put in place and a further five-person environmental hit squad will also be brought in to give extra support to the team.

Cllr Law said: “For some time, Dunfermline has had the thin end of the wedge with staffing following some reorganisation some time ago.

“I have been trying to have this resolved for some years and finally we have some success. Despite staff shortages and the clear need to have staff numbers increased, the existing staff have done their best.

“Around Dunfermline, there have been awards from Beautiful Fife and Keep Scotland Beautiful. I would like to pay tribute to the staff and to all the voluntary groups including the community councils across Dunfermline, Wellwood, Halbeath, Kingseat and Townhill for the efforts they have made to support the work of the council.

“There is also considerable effort being made to install new playparks across Dunfermline. I know there are some areas of the town in urgent need of attention but with increased staffing and community support I look forward to seeing a real change for the better.”

With the council reviewing its parks, streets and open spaces department in May, the Press that Dunfermline received almost £400,000 less in funding for its Parks, Streets and Open Spaces than Kirkcaldy.

Dunfermline South Councillor James Calder questioned the disparity after considerable concern from local residents regarding the state of some areas.

He claimed favouritism was being shown despite the two towns being roughly the same in size.

However, Councillor Ross Vettraino, spokesperson for environment, protective services and community safety, rebuked the remark saying that, “every part of Fife gets the funding it needs”.

Cllr Calder said: “After raising the issue of Dunfermline getting a disproportionately low level of funding for Parks, Streets and Open Spaces over the past few months, I am glad that the council is now finally taking notice.

“Many of my constituents have raised concerns that other areas of Fife have been getting more attention, which has been shown to be true. Hopefully, with the additional staff, Dunfermline’s green areas will improve substantially, which will reap rewards for local people and visitors alike.”