Demolition work has officially commenced on the Thistle and Esplanade multi-storey car parks in Kirkcaldy town centre, marking a significant step in the regeneration of the town's waterfront.

The project, carried out by BAM UK on behalf of Fife Council, follows a recent public information event where details and expected timelines were shared with local residents and businesses.

Since the end of September, initial site activity has involved clearing demolition materials from the former Kirkcaldy swimming pool site, installing security hoarding and monitored CCTV, carrying out condition surveys on nearby structures, and disconnecting utilities in preparation for the main demolition works. Full clearance of both car parks is anticipated to be completed by winter 2026.

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Councillor Ian Cameron, Convener of the Kirkcaldy Area Committee, welcomed the progress, noting that both car parks, despite their prominent waterfront position, "are now dated and unfortunately have become real eyesores in our town centre, as well as a target for anti-social behaviour."

Once the sites are cleared, Fife Council plans to market them for a high-quality, mixed-use development that will combine residential and commercial opportunities. This approach forms a core part of the wider strategy to revitalise Kirkcaldy's town centre and waterfront, aiming to create a more attractive place to live, work, and visit, and, as Councillor Cameron stated, to "increase investment in Kirkcaldy town centre."