A GROUP of Dunfermline neighbours are celebrating a decision to remove their grit bin being reversed after they had highlighted the issue through the Press.

Tracey Frain, who lives in Shaw Street, had, along with residents in surrounding streets, been furious when the bin – which they said was a lifeline in adverse weather – was taken away.

Grit bins around West Fife were removed last month after a review of winter service policy led to a reduction in their number around the area.

After contacting the Press, compiling a petition and enlisting the help of Dunfermline West MSP Shirley-Anne Somerville, they were delighted to hear that their efforts had been fruitful.

Tracey said: “The neighbours can’t believe we have done it. The hard work has paid off and it is down to the Press as well. I was adamant I was fighting for it. I hadn’t seen anything so pathetic. It just didn’t make sense.

“You drive round Dunfermline and there are grit bins along the main roads still. Why would you take them off the side roads?”

Ms Somerville said she was pleased Fife Council had reconsidered its decision after “clear local opposition” to the Shaw Street grit bin’s removal.

“It will be welcome news to residents that this bin will be reinstated within the next two weeks,” she said.

“I’m also pleased to note that the council will be reinstating a number of other grit bins in Dunfermline and West Fife, following similar concerns being raised about the impact on safety and accessibility which their removal could have during winter conditions.

“Going forward, it is essential that the views of residents are taken into consideration in the decision-making process when determining the placement of grit bins.”

Bill Liddle, Fife Council’s roads and transportation service manager, confirmed the grit bin was being returned to Shaw Street as a result of a request received from a resident and was approved prior to them receiving the petition.

He added: “There are a number of grit bins being returned across Fife, as we said we would be doing if residents raised their concerns with us and were deemed to have a valid case.”