Encompassing roughly 223 hectares, in 2019 the site received planning permission in principle and is anticipated to provide over 2,150 homes, including 25% affordable housing, as well as employment land, healthcare and community facilities, retail provision, open space alongside travel and transport links. 

For a number of years, Fife Council has worked together with the lead developer, Stirling Developments, to help advance the vision for the site.

Detailed planning approvals have been granted for initial infrastructure works, including part of the new Western Distributor Road, alongside strategic design frameworks and the initial residential phases of the development.

Fife Council leader, Councillor David Ross, said: “Kingswood has been a key part of the council’s long-term vision for growth in the area and will help meet the need for new homes while creating a sustainable new community. 

“The development has been designed to ensure that homes, jobs, schools, services and green spaces are integrated from the outset.”

Ross added: “The council has worked closely with Stirling Developments and a range of partners to ensure that the infrastructure required to support the community is planned alongside development, and I’m pleased to see work now getting underway.”

The masterplan draws from the original Dunfermline Town Plan of the 1920s, which built on principles from Sir Patrick Geddess’ Dunfermline Improvement Plan.

The new city quarter will form a number of connected neighbourhoods connected by greenways, public parks and active travel routes. New links are also planned between Kingswood and Dunfermline city centre.

The development will include roughly 68 hectares of employment land, retail spaces, community and healthcare facilities, at least one primary school and extensive landscaped open space.

Ross commented: “Kingswood is about much more than delivering new homes. It will provide employment opportunities, community facilities and high-quality public spaces for current and future generations. 

“As Scotland’s newest city continues to grow, developments such as Kingswood will play an important role in supporting the local economy and helping address the housing need across the area.”

Peter Stirling, managing director for Stirling Developments, said: “Stirling Developments have been both master planners and project leaders of this special site for over 20 years. 

“During this period we have worked closely with Fife Council to help ensure Kingswood delivers its maximum potential for Dunfermline and the wider community.”

Kingswood is anticipated to be delivered in phases over the course of the next 25 to 30 years.