The Ministry of Defence (MoD) has agreed, in principle, to remove radioactive material from Dalgety Bay, it has been announced.

It is understood the plan aims to resolve a long-running disagreement over who is responsible for managing risks to the public in the local area; the stretch of coast in question has been contaminated with radium from scrapped aircraft instrument panels.

In a report by the MoD, it suggests a programme of works to remove the radioactive material, as well as plans for the reinforcement, replacement and extension of coastal rock armour. A replacement slipway at Dalgety Bay Sailing Club has also been proposed.

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The MoD has said it expects the work to be completed by the end of 2018.

Costs for the project are "still being finalised", it added.

Andrew Murrison, Defence Minister, is quoted as saying: "We are committed to supporting the Dalgety Bay community and, whilst the risk to the public has always been very low, this report sets out a clear and strong strategy to address the radium contamination on the beach.

"We continue to work with Sepa and the council to achieve agreement on their future responsibilities and a definitive solution as soon as possible."

The plan has received support from the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA).

In a statement, Calum MacDonald, Executive Director of SEPA, said: "The proposed works outlined by MoD provide a long term solution to the radium contamination of Dalgety Bay which if successful will allow the public to use the entire area again in an unrestricted manner.

"We welcome the proposals and will continue to work with MoD, Fife Council and other partners as detailed plans for the works are developed and implemented."

(JP/IT)