Three community initiatives in Levenmouth have secured significant support in the latest round of the Levenmouth Reconnected Programme (LRP) large grants, after members of the Levenmouth Area Committee signed off funding to upgrade facilities, improve public spaces and safeguard a much-loved local landmark.

The approved awards are: Autism Rocks Community Centre Refurbishment (£143,860); Buckhaven Play Park Improvements (£95,250); and Lower Largo Pier Restoration (£150,000 initially, with up to a further £500,000 to be considered if agreed conditions are met).

This was the seventh funding round since the LRP launched in 2021. Created as a £10 million fund by the Scottish Government and Fife Council to maximise the benefits of the Levenmouth Rail Link's reinstatement, the LRP's large grant pot is now fully committed following these decisions.

Councillor Alistair Suttie, Convener of the Levenmouth Area Committee, said: "I'm delighted that the committee has approved funding for these three worthwhile projects, each of which will bring lasting benefits to communities across Levenmouth.

"These investments reflect the ambition, commitment and creativity of local organisations that are working hard to improve opportunities and facilities for local people.

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"It's also a major milestone for the Levenmouth Reconnected Programme, which has already supported a wide range of successful projects across the area, helping communities make the most of the opportunities created by the return of the railway.

"These latest awards continue that positive legacy and demonstrate the lasting impact the programme is having throughout Levenmouth."

The Autism Rocks project will refurbish the former Buckhaven and Wemyss Parish Church to develop an enhanced community hub for autistic people and their families. Autism Rocks has now taken full ownership of the building, having occupied it for a decade, and plans selected works to the ground floor of the main church as part of broader activity linked to the Buckhaven Heritage Project.

At Buckhaven Play Park, the community council aims to create a fully inclusive, disabled-user-friendly facility on land between Sandwell Street and Methilhaven Road, addressing a local area identified as experiencing high levels of deprivation.

Michelle Ratcliffe, from Buckhaven and Denbeath Community Council, said: "This is fantastic news for our community.

"The funding will help transform our vision of an all-inclusive park into a reality, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to play, explore, and feel a sense of belonging in a safe and accessible environment."

For Lower Largo Pier, the grant will fund detailed design work and site investigations ahead of restoration of the harbour and pier as a cultural and recreational destination. As well as rebuilding the structures structurally, environmentally and aesthetically, the development intends to protect the village from climate-related risks, including rising sea levels, while creating a visitor attraction. Initial funding enables the Largo Harbour Regeneration Group to progress the plans, with any further sum to be released later subject to review of conditions and scrutiny.

Since launch, the Levenmouth Reconnected Programme has awarded more than £7.8 million to large-scale projects, alongside funding for smaller community initiatives and accelerated projects, delivering long-term benefits across the area.