Public to have say on Dunfermline Southern Gateway plans

Three artists have been shortlisted to complete the project at the King Malcolm Roundabout – close to the proposed new Lidl store – and consultation on what will be created is likely to start by the end of the year.

Providing an update through their latest newsletter, the South Dunfermline Community Council said the project initially started with aspirations to tidy up the area around the vacant King Malcolm Hotel.

“Ideas became a reality as we managed to secure some funding then Dunfermline was granted city status and The Southern Gateway Project was found,” they explained.

READ MORE: Retirement plans see popular West Fife pub put up for sale 

“After a very successful city conference run by Fife Council, it became apparent there was a need for the city to promote the great assets it has and where better to start than the southern gateway.

“A working group was formed and slowly ideas flowed in and we made progress.

“An artists’ brief was issued and more than 20 sent out to interested artists. Twelve designs for a gateway piece of public art were returned.”

The submissions have now been narrowed down to three ideas with the final choice being decided after the public consultation.

The update added: “So far, Fife Council have been supportive of the project and are keen to take it forward. The cost of the structure will come from a budget earmarked for public art.

“There is still much to achieve in making this an attractive entrance to the city.”