WILDLIFE including young deer and swans have died following a number of "tragic incidents" at the site of a former opencast coalmine near Kelty.

Those behind the St Ninian's Eco-Wellness and Leisure Park plans have urged dog owners to keep their dogs on a lead after the recent "heartbreaking" attacks on the area's wildlife.

Irene Bissett, Chair of National Pride CIC and Director of National Pride (St Ninians) Ltd, said: “The attacks by unleashed dogs on our wildlife is heartbreaking, not only the effect it has on breeding pairs and the loss of their young, but also for our security staff and visitors who are having to witness such attacks and the resulting aftermath.

“When visiting St Ninians, we ask all dog owners to be aware of the temptation for their unleashed dogs, regardless of size or breed, to chase and attack wildlife.

"We therefore ask all owners to act responsibly and keep their dogs on a lead as a normally docile animal can quickly and unexpectedly become dangerously out of control in the presence of wildlife.

READ MORE: National Pride submit new plans to develop old mine at Kelty

"Dog owners need to be aware of the potential pain and suffering their pet could inflict on wildlife, as well as being aware of the potential repercussions of a hefty fine or imprisonment and having the dog destroyed."

Ms Bisset said walkers currently enjoy the freedom to roam across the site and are likely to come into contact with the resident wildlife.

"As we progress our project, certain areas will be fenced off for tree planting, soil remediation and also to protect wildlife during the breeding season," she continued.

"During these times we urge all visitors to keep to the designated paths which will be clearly marked.

“We are very excited about the enormous potential of this astonishing location, and as custodians, we have invested considerable time and resources to maintain and upgrade the site to be a safe place for guests and our resident wildlife.”

An environmentally sensitive mixed-use development is planned for the site just off junction four of the M90 since National Pride (St Ninians) Ltd took it over in 2021.

A masterplan for an "exciting leisure and ecotourism destination" is currently being developed with a proposal of application notice (PAN) being submitted to Fife Council earlier this year.

The aim is to turn 976 acres into an eco-wellness and leisure park, with a spa complex, tree houses, lodges, geodesic domes and a technology park, as well as restoring the trout fishery and creating an aquatic centre at Loch Fitty.

The community interest company will use green technology to produce renewable energy, work with locals to create long-term employment, offer training opportunities and build an arts, museum of mining history and entertainment centre, which will also host conferences.

A project website has been created at www.stninianswellness.com and will be updated over the course of the current consultation period for the site.

Ms Bisset added: "Should we receive planning consent for out proposed Eco-Wellness and Leisure Park, this will allow us to deliver a more managed environment, delivering a safe, attractive and welcoming place for all.”