DISABLED access could finally be coming to Dunfermline Abbey after years of delays on the project.

Planning permission is being sought to build a ramp, alongside steps and balustrades at the historic site, the burial place of Robert the Bruce, by the end of 2019.

Proposals first came forward six years ago in preparation for an influx of visitors expected to visit the abbey in 2014 to coincide with the 700th anniversary of the Scottish king’s famous win at Bannockburn.

The aim was to have the improvements in place to ease access for tourists but the plans were withdrawn over concerns about breaking “sacred ground”.

Gillian Taylor, area services manager for Dunfermline, said: “This has been an ongoing project but the issue has been going into a graveyard and a building with huge historical significance.

“There has been a lot of consultation with Historic Scotland and we’re hoping that the plans that we have now will get permission.

“Hopefully we will get them through and we will be able to complete it this year.”

Fife Council resubmitted plans in 2015 to make it easier to get around the historic building, but because of the abbey’s protected status, admitted that it could be a long wait before anything was done.

Sure enough, another four years have passed and the council have once again lodged plans seeking permission for the works, after lengthy consultation with Historic Scotland.

The Abbey, which dates back to the 12th century, attracts around 20,000 visitors a year and wheelchair access is currently by the vestry door on the east side of the building.

The church also has a temporary ramp that they use for their congregation.

“Dunfermline Abbey has a unique historical heritage,” Gillian added.

“There are a lot of different considerations, for example archaeological investigations that will need to take place before we build.

“I don’t think people realise how much work goes into changing anything at a graveyard, but it is right and proper that all these permissions have to be sought.

“We have been working closely with the Abbey all through the different steps – it’s not an easy process but I’m hoping we can get a conclusion soon.

“There are more and more visitors coming into Dunfermline and we probably have a more ageing congregation.

“I’m not aware of any complaints but it’s something that will benefit the town going forward.”

In 2015, £120,000 was expected to be spent on the project.

Four years down the line, the exact costs were not available but it’s believed that spending will still be in the same region.

If planning permission is granted the next stage will be to apply for a sheriff’s warrant so an archaeological investigation can take place at the site.