Cowdenbeath Town House Redevelopment ​ takes an important step forward

The redevelopment of Cowdenbeath Town House took an important step forward this week when a planning application was submitted to Fife Council. All going to plan, refurbishment works will start on site in the new year with handover planned for October 2026.

This exciting new proposal has been approved based on a business plan produced by BRAG and aims to transform the historic building into a thriving business hub, supporting start-ups and social enterprises. ​The proposals focus on a light-touch refurbishment, preserving the building’s heritage while introducing modern functionality. ​Planning approval is now being sought for the following:

Site Layout:

Enhancements include a new sculptural entrance ramp, improved accessibility, and retention of parking spaces at the rear. ​ Soft landscaping and bike storage are also incorporated to support sustainability. ​The memorial space out front will be sympathetically enhanced.

Internal Spaces:

• Ground Floor: A large community events space/café with street-facing visibility, exhibition space, incorporating local radio/podcast studios. ​ Non-original partitions will be removed to restore spatial qualities. ​
• First Floor: Cellular office spaces and a flexible events space in the former committee room, maintaining the grandeur of the vaulted ceiling. The event space will be available for wedding ceremonies as well other cultural events.
• Accessibility: Accessible WCs on both floors, retained lift, and visual contrasts in design for inclusivity. ​

External Alterations:

• Demolition of the non-original cell block to provide rear carpark areas. ​
• Repairs to the ashlar stonework and harling.
• Windows and doors upgraded with some new ​where necessary.
• New entrance ramp, modern signage and improved landscaping.

Sustainability:

• Air Source Heat Pumps to replace the old gas heating. ​
• Insulation upgrades using sustainable materials.
• EV charging point and native tree planting to enhance biodiversity. ​

Community Engagement:

Feedback from consultations has shaped the design, including preserving the war memorial and addressing heritage concerns. ​

This redevelopment will rejuvenate a key local landmark, creating a vibrant hub for business and community activities while respecting its historical significance. ​

After a great deal of work the plans have now been submitted, and it’s anticipated that demolition on the redundant parts will start early 2026 with refurbishment following directly thereafter. Completion dates are currently being quoted as October 2026.

Simultaneously a new Cowdenbeath entity is being set up (name to be determined) that will apply for asset transfer and ownership will pass from the council to the community entity once the works are complete. This local entity will retain ownership of the building with BRAG then acting as the sitting tenant on a long-term lease with space then being sub-let as per the original business plan. Locals have already come forward to act as Directors of the new entity and will be joined by two Directors from BRAG. This entity should be constituted by January 2026 allowing it to start the asset transfer process.