Steps To Bolster Fife Town

Councillors in the north east are urging the MOD to continue working with them to provide support for businesses in Leuchars.

The area has been under pressure since the departure of jets from RAF Leuchars.

More than 800 soldiers and their families will arrive from Germany in June and July.

Fife Council says it's also working with traders to provide them with any reliefs they're entitled to such as non domestic rates.

Depute council leader Lesley Laird commented: "While we are looking forward to the army arriving we are aware that many local businesses are experiencing trading difficulties since the RAF left the base.

"I've written to the MoD and Secretary of State for Defence to ask that they continue to work with us and provide some assistance for businesses during this transition time.

"Meanwhile, Fife Council and Business Gateway are working with local businesses and the wider community to promote a buy local campaign. New leaflets have been produced and are being distributed throughout the area. The council is also working with traders to make sure they receive any reliefs they are entitled to from non domestic (business) rates.

"Representatives from all organisations involved in the transition have been meeting regularly for many months and working together to make sure any impact on local communities is well managed. 

"Transition time was never going to be easy for the town. The community has worked hard to prepare but the reality of the situation is proving difficult for some. I would urge any business that is in difficulty to contact us as soon as possible. We can discuss a range of options including payment arrangements for business rates.

"We'll continue in our efforts to get in touch with any businesses experiencing problems, signpost to advice and highlight a range of potential funding help."