IT WAS the end of an era in Halbeath this week as the dilapidated Hotel Roma building was razed to the ground.

The derelict eyesore on Main Street – which has been a blot on the village landscape since it shut its doors 15 years ago – will be replaced with a Stephens bakery shop and drive-thru.

Permission to knock down the building, formerly the Fod Arms, was granted by Fife Council last June and, when it opens, the new Stephens is set to create around 20 new jobs.

Ailinn Gilroy, from Halbeath and Duloch Community Council, is hoping new community facilities will follow the addition of new eateries for Halbeath.

“As we reminisce our fond memories of the Fod Arms, our renowned landmark is tragically ruined to the ground due to neglect by uncommunicative property owners who abandoned it for 15 years and left it dangerous to the community,” she said.

“I am deeply saddened to see all the green spaces destroyed in this new Pittsburgh retail area but am glad it’s not the high-rise accommodation suggested. The traffic is now much busier than it was when we only had visitors to Armando’s chippy.

“Whilst drive-thrus are handy for those pressed for time, we are lacking in the community facilities.

“The vibrant new committee of Halbeath and Duloch Community Council are delighted to advocate everyone to join us in engaging with planning discussions locally, like setting up our local foodbanks.”