PLANS to change a block of flats into a hostel in Dunfermline have been given the go ahead by Fife Council.

Kingdom Housing Association – on behalf of its subsidiary Kingdom Support and Care, who who manage and operate the hostel – submitted proposals to convert a two-storey property at 88 Pittencrieff Street, and says the changes will help it with its aims of supporting individuals by providing short-term accommodation.

The five flats in the building will be altered, refurbished and upgraded. The premises will be converted into five self-contained bedsits, staff sleepover accommodation and ancillary accommodation.

The works will also include the formation of an access ramp, a replacement staircase and railings, and the installation of two new windows and door.

A supporting statement submitted with the application by Sinclair Watt Architects explains that Kingdom Support and Care (KSC) supports over 300 people throughout Fife and Forth Valley, providing high quality and personalised support and care designed to meet individual needs and desired outcomes.

READ MORE: Kingdom Housing aim to change flats into hostel

The statement continues: “They provide support to people with a range of needs in their own homes, including those with learning disability, autistic spectrum disorder, complex needs, mental health issues, age related needs, care at home for children, transitional support for young people to adult services, homelessness, drug and alcohol addictions.

“KSCs aim is to support individuals to have a safe and secure home, to live as independently as possible in their own home, to live as full a life as possible and to be part of their local community.”

Sinclair Watt added that the proposal sought to make a positive contribution and provide support for people who find themselves unintentionally homeless.

In determining the application, planning officer Emma Baxter explained: “Given the nature of the proposed use, as well as the fact that the surrounding area largely comprises of residential properties, it is considered that the proposed use of the property would be in keeping with the surrounding area and is therefore acceptable in this instance.”

Ms Baxter acknowledged that concerns had been raised over the project.

She added: “Four letters of representation have been received which have raised concerns regarding the fear of crime and anti-social behaviour arising as a result of the proposed use.

"Particular concerns have been expressed in relation to the proximity of the site to a nearby primary school. Fear of crime/anti-social behaviour is a matter that is more properly for other agencies such as the Care Inspectorate and/or Police Scotland to consider and do not constitute reasonable grounds for refusal.”

Further concerns were raised over the installation of CCTV equipment, but this was found to be a general permitted development, and therefore do not require planning permission.