A PETITION has been started that calls on the Scottish Government to "keep their promise" and fund a new £7.8 million health centre in Kincardine.

Labour councillor for the West Fife and Coastal Villages, Graeme Downie, launched it after the "crushing" news that the money needed won't be available any time soon.

More than 100 people have signed the petition and his emergency motion at last week's Fife Council's meeting, urging the government to ensure the funding is delivered as soon as possible, was backed by councillors.

The current Kilbagie Street practice was condemned as "not fit for purpose" in 2016 and a new health centre was promised but, after years of delays and disappointments, earlier this month health minister Maree Todd said resources will "likely be provided in the second half of the decade".

Cllr Downie said: "It is simply not acceptable that having waited seven years for a new GP surgery already, we might now not see funding for a further six years.

"By the time designs are finalised, construction tendered and procured, started and completed and staffing in place, it may well be 15 years or more since that initial promise in 2016 that the new Kincardine GP surgery opens its doors.

"Fife Council must stand up for the people of Kincardine and add our voice to a campaign to reverse this decision and my motion calls for the leader to write to the health secretary urging just that."

A new health centre for Lochgelly, locals were told it would open in 2019, will also be delayed.

Council leader David Ross will now write to the cabinet secretary for health, Humza Yousaf, to outline the "urgency" of new health centres for both communities.

Cllr Downie added: "We can demand better and urge the Scottish Government to reverse this terrible decision, deliver the funding for the new GP surgery the people in Kincardine were promised and which is vital for the future success and prosperity of the village."

You can sign the petition here.