A PLANNING application to knock down a listed building in the heart of Dunfermline and replace it with 42 apartments have been withdrawn.

The proposals, which would see construction of up to five storeys and containing 42 apartments on the site of the old Fife Council local office on Walmer Driver, were submitted by Byzantian Developments Ltd back in 2022.

The building has lain empty for more than a decade and has suffered serious vandalism over the years.

The developers say the original 19th century villa has been altered and damaged so much that it's not worth saving and should be levelled.

When the plans were lodged, they said: "The property has also suffered from serious vandalism over several years of non-occupation, including fire damage and subsequent water ingress, rendering it structurally unsound and unfit for conversion.

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"This application therefore brings forward proposals for the comprehensive redevelopment of the derelict existing site to form new town centre homes in the heart of the Auld Grey Toun, bringing people and activity and life back to the heart of the community."

The plans included undercroft parking, one- and two-bed apartments over six levels, off-street parking, secure cycle storage, tiered courtyards and roof terraces.

The Press contacted Byzantian for comment but they had not yet responded.