The proposals will support 35 pupil places at the new Hillside School in Aberdour, while also creating small business workspace units, and a thoughtfully designed residential development by Cala Homes (East).

The construction phase for the site is projected to generate an annual economic boost of £31.6 million and create approximately 465 full-time construction jobs each year.

Anne Harvey, director of Hillside School, said: “Every child deserves access to the highest quality education in an environment that truly supports their individual needs.

“The school proposals will deliver a facility that will provide our pupils with the space, care and opportunity they need to thrive.

“This is about creating the right conditions for learning, a place where our young people feel safe, inspired and fully supported to reach their potential.

“For many of our pupils, Hillside is both a school and a home, so having a purpose-built, modern space designed around their needs is not just important, it’s essential.”

The purpose-built Hillside School will provide residential and educational care for young people aged 8–19 with complex and additional support needs, in a safe, nurturing and inspiring environment designed to help them thrive. At its heart, a central hub connects state-of-the-art teaching spaces, a dedicated sports wing, and administrative facilities, while a tranquil sensory garden and semi-private outdoor areas promote wellbeing and connection to nature.

Every element of the campus has been tailored to support pupils’ educational, emotional and social development in a setting that feels both inclusive and empowering.

Stephen Faller, senior land manager with Cala Homes (East), said: “We are pleased to be continuing our presence within Aberdour to support the local economy as well as play our part in enabling the delivery of an integral campus for young people to learn, grow, and thrive. Aberdour is a community we’ve been proud to support over the years, and these latest proposals reflect our ongoing commitment to delivering meaningful, long-term benefits.

“Alongside the school campus, we will be delivering a high-quality development of 186 gas-free homes, thoughtfully integrated within approximately 17 acres of open space. This project includes 46 affordable homes, addressing a critical need in the area.

“Our diverse range of housing options, from two-bedroom cottage flats to five-bedroom detached homes, is designed to cater to various demographics. Additionally, a dedicated 3-metre-wide pedestrian path proposed will connect the village and the development to nearby amenities, enhancing community accessibility.”

Cala Homes (East) has already invested over £6m in Aberdour and the surrounding area, including a £4.8m affordable housing agreement with Fife Council and more than £1.2m in infrastructure and community contributions.

Once the development is complete, new residents are expected to generate £2.5m in yearly local spending, helping sustain around 35 full-time roles in retail, hospitality, and leisure.

The development is also forecast to deliver £7m in annual economic output when fully operational, with Fife Council benefiting from an extra £590,000 per year in council tax and business rates revenue.