A heritage-led regeneration initiative in Buckhaven has secured £1.2 million from The National Lottery Heritage Fund, launching a five-year programme to restore significant buildings and open up new opportunities in training, skills and community activity for local residents.

The Buckhaven Heritage project will invest in the town’s historic assets while creating pathways into employability and supporting a range of community projects designed to boost local pride and participation.

Caroline Clark, The National Lottery Heritage Fund Director for Scotland said: "We are proud to support Buckhaven Heritage, Fife Historic Buildings Trust and Fife Council to work with local people and organisations, not just listening to their views but making sure they are actively involved and at the heart of the project.

"Understanding how people feel about their heritage is vital to meaningful regeneration and this project will ensure Buckhaven's built and cultural heritage is cherished and enjoyed now and for generations to come.

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"With our support, thanks to National Lottery players, Buckhaven Heritage will invest in local opportunities. Delivering learning and training for young people, supporting health and wellbeing, and skills development for all ages. Ensuring heritage is a powerful driver of local pride and prosperity."

Led by Fife Council in partnership with Fife Historic Buildings Trust (FHBT), the scheme is guided by a local partnership board bringing together organisations with a shared commitment to the future of Buckhaven, Denbeath and Muiredge. Members include Autism Rocks, The Community Trade Hub, Buckhaven and Denbeath Community Council, Buckhind Players, Community-Led Environmental Action for Regeneration (CLEAR) and New Hope Kirk Levenmouth.

Buckhaven's evolution from a bustling fishing hub to a town tied to coal mining has left a rich legacy, and local memories, traditions and a strong sense of place remain central to community identity.

Taking a place-based approach, the project recognises the power of historic buildings, shared stories and cherished landmarks in shaping how people feel about where they live, work and meet.

Investment will focus on key sites such as Buckhaven Parish Church, now owned by Autism Rocks, and the Community Trade Hub, with restoration and conservation works aimed at safeguarding their future, improving accessibility and creating new uses.

A substantial programme of public realm improvements will enhance the heart of the town, including upgrades to green spaces, restoration of historic features, better connections between heritage sites and new interpretation that explores Buckhaven’s fishing, mining and social history.

Residents will help shape and share this story through research, memory-gathering, public art and the creation of a new interactive heritage trail.