PLANS have been submitted to convert the dilapidated Pilmuir Works in Dunfermline into shops and 157 homes. 

Edinburgh-based Byzantian Developments Ltd, which is half-owned by Dunfermline businessman Steven Turnbull, want to revitalise the historic eyesore building and create a mixed development.

Earlier this month, they applied to Fife Council for listed building consent for partial demolition and internal and external alterations on the southern section of the site and full plans have now been lodged.

Mr Turnbull said their proposals would see the regeneration of the derelict site – the category A-listed former Dunlop factory is currently on the 'Buildings at risk' register – and bring 157 new homes into the town centre.

Together with business partner Daniel Multon, he plans to keep as much of the historic building's original features as possible. 

Their plans will see the refurbishment and preservation of the last industrial chimney in Dunfermline while the engine shed will be brought back to its former glory and used as a retail space.

The property on the site will be a mix of one-, two- and three-bed contemporary apartments with retail space on the ground floor along Winterthur Lane.

Urban living will be promoted through proximity to workplaces, entertainment, public transport and the provision of bike storage and Fife's first car club.

As part of the plans, developers would use the existing Dunfermline District Heating System which turns landfill gas into electricity and heat.

As reported previously in the Press, Mr Turnbull is conscious of the local desire to have something done which will restore what has become a town centre eyesore.

“It is a prominent site – I have grown up in Dunfermline and lived here all my days so was well aware of it," he said. "We have a lot of experience in dealing with listed buildings for residential and commercial use across Scotland.

"Everything is getting retained that can be."

Previous plans for the building, submitted by the now-collapsed Linklever Ltd, gained permission in 2007 for shops, a restaurant, creche and a coffee bar, as well as 80 flats.