Planning Submission Date Confirmed for First Phase of Dunfermline Northern Link Road

Fife Council has confirmed that a planning application for the opening section of the proposed Northern Link Road in Dunfermline is expected to be lodged in August, marking a significant milestone for the long-term transport project.

The initial phase of the scheme will focus on a new road connection between Kingseat Road and Pleasance Road, incorporating a bridge crossing over the Fife Circle railway line near Halbeath Retail Park.

The project is being developed in partnership with Network Rail and is intended to facilitate the eventual closure of the existing level crossing on Kingseat Road, improving both safety and traffic flow in the area.

Major Transport Investment for Growing City

The Northern Link Road forms part of a wider multi-million-pound programme aimed at supporting future growth in Dunfermline and improving transport links across the northern part of the city.

In addition to providing an alternative route for motorists, the scheme will include dedicated infrastructure for walking, wheeling and cycling, while also being designed to accommodate future bus services.

The road is expected to play a key role in supporting planned residential development areas north of Dunfermline over the coming decades.

Collaborative Delivery Approach

Fife Council is working closely with developers involved in the city's Strategic Development Areas to bring the project forward.

Under the proposed delivery model, some sections of the route will be constructed directly by housebuilders as part of their developments, while other elements will be funded through developer contributions and delivered by the council.

Construction will take place in stages, with the railway bridge expected to be completed by early 2028.

Public Event Planned Ahead of Application

Before the planning application is formally submitted, residents and stakeholders will have an opportunity to learn more about the proposals at a public information session.

The event will take place at Kingseat Community Centre on 30 June between 3pm and 7pm. Representatives from Fife Council and Network Rail will provide details of the bridge design and explain proposals for the closure of the existing level crossing.

Members of the public are being encouraged to attend and find out more about how the scheme will be delivered.

Supporting Long-Term Growth

Councillor Altany Craik, Fife Council's spokesperson for Finance, Economy and Strategic Planning, described the project as a major investment in Dunfermline's future transport infrastructure.

He said the Northern Link Road would help ensure the city's road network remains capable of supporting continued growth over the next two decades, while improving connectivity for residents, businesses and visitors.

Craik also highlighted that much of the funding for the scheme will come from developer contributions secured through the planning system, unless infrastructure is delivered directly by developers themselves.

Overall, more than £70 million of transport and road improvement projects are expected to be delivered across Dunfermline over the coming 20 years, representing one of the largest infrastructure investment programmes planned for the city.

The Northern Link Road is regarded as a key component of that wider strategy, helping to improve connectivity, support sustainable travel and accommodate future development as Dunfermline continues to expand.