A SPIKE in anti-social behaviour has seen an increase in the number of "extreme" and "serious" tenancy breaches in Dunfermline.

City councillors were told that trouble was on the rise in certain areas, the worst incidents involved violence, hate crimes and drug charges, and Fife Council have promised "robust action" against the perpetrators.

A report to last week's area committee said that in 2022-23 there were 31 'extreme' breaches of the tenancy agreement, 123 that fell into the 'serious' category and 82 that were considered 'minor'.

The worst offences, which can lead to court action and eviction, include physical violence and assault, threats, hate incidents and drug charges.

Dunfermline Press: 'Extreme' tenancy breaches involve offences such as drug dealing, threats, violence and hate crimes.'Extreme' tenancy breaches involve offences such as drug dealing, threats, violence and hate crimes.

Instances of verbal abuse, drug dealing and frequent and ongoing serious disturbances such as loud music, parties, shouting and swearing, are all classed as 'serious' breaches.

And although in the 'minor' category, those incidents do include occasional noise, family disputes affecting neighbours, behaviour of children, household noise, first complaints or infrequent disturbances, and smell of drugs.

READ MORE: Supervision order for woman who spat on police officer

Housing manager Lynne Johnston told the committee: "The number of extreme and serious breaches of tenancy have increased but those cases are well managed and we will continue to work with safer communities staff to ensure members of the community are well supported."

Earlier this summer council staff admitted they were "flabbergasted" by the rise in complaints of anti-social behaviour in Dunfermline.

As well as the breaches, there were nine abandoned tenancies and 30 'supported' tenancies.

A report to the committee added: "We aim to provide a firm and fair approach to tenants, including their family members and visitors, who do not comply fully with the terms of their tenancy agreement, so that all residents can enjoy their homes free from anti-social behaviour."

The committee was also told the number of corporate complaints against the housing service increased to 103, however 63 were not upheld, 10 were partially upheld and 11 were resolved.