Former Dunfermline bank to be transformed into flats

Proposals to create four flats and three shops in a former Dunfermline bank have been approved.

Scott Adamson, from City Hotels Dunfermline Ltd, had applied for permission to change the use of part of the old Bank of Scotland branch on Bothwell Street.

The plans will see four flats created on the first floor of the building and alterations carried out on the ground floor to create three retail units.

External work will include the creation of parking spaces, landscaping and bin storage.

The bank shut its doors in January last year after more than 25 years in the premises.

It was among a string of closures which the Bank of Scotland said was down to branches being used less because of the increased use of mobile and internet banking.

A planning statement had explained that each of the proposed retail units would be accessed directly from the ground level via its own front entrance.

“Whilst no occupier has yet been identified for the new retail units, the applicant anticipates that each unit could be occupied separately or, owing to the design format proposed, any combination of one, two or three units combine into a larger floor plate,” it said.

“This approach offers flexibility according to market interest.

“The proposed four flats created from conversion of the upper floor are to be living accommodation. This will comprise two bedrooms, both ensuite, lounge, kitchen and dining with WCs.”

The report added that the plans would restore a vacant property and deliver new homes amid a housing emergency.

Approving the application, a report from planners said the plans were considered acceptable.

“The proposal is compatible with the area in terms of land use, design and scale,” they stated.

“Furthermore, no significant impacts would arise in regard to existing levels of residential amenity, visual amenity or road safety.”