A town in Fife has been nominated for a 2012 Scottish Urban Regeneration Forum (SURF) Award.

Lochgelly has been shortlisted after being nominated by Fife Council under the Sustainable Place category.

The Council said: "Lochgelly has achieved the short-listed status because of the physical, economic and social evidence of the joint commitment and hard work of everyone who has an interest in ensuring Lochgelly is the best place to live, work and socialise."

SURF is Scotland's independent regeneration network. The organisation's overall objective is to "improve the health and wellbeing of residents in Scotland’s disadvantaged communities."

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It is a non-profit company established in in 1992 and its members include small community groups, private companies, local authorities, housing associations, health boards, academic institutions, professional bodies, voluntary organisations and charities.

Hazel Cross, Economic Adviser with Enterprise, Planning & Protective Services said: "Three SURF judges visited the town on Friday 12th October and although their visit by its nature was limited, they were treated to a series of presentations by Fife Council, and community groups, Lochgelly Community Development Forum and Loch of Shining Water."

Ending their visit with a tour of the Lochgelly Centre, the judges were given the opportunity to see the new library facilities and hear about Fife Cultural Trust initiatives 'First in a Lifetime' and 'Talent Hubs'.

Executive Member for Business, Enterprise, Economy & Planning, Councillor Kay Carrington, welcomed the shortlisting of Lochgelly and added: "The nomination of Lochgelly for this award is well deserved and shows the dedication and positive partnership working of everyone in Lochgelly. With ongoing commitment, Lochgelly will go from strength to strength."

The award results will be announced in December 2012.

(IT)