The Cupar North site has been identified for development since the mid-2000s, with the current application submitted in December 2015. The proposal was for a mixed-use development of up to 1,480 homes (including 20% affordable housing), alongside other uses such as a new primary school, a relief road and supporting infrastructure.

The housebuilder has advised Fife Council that changes in land ownership across the wider Cupar North site, along with rising costs associated with delivering the masterplan, have led to the withdrawal.

In particular, the cost of the proposed northern link road and the delivery of a new primary school have presented significant challenges.

Pam Ewen, head of planning, climate and sustainability at Fife Council, said: “The application has been with the council for a significant period and has undergone a number of revisions.

“I recognise this has created uncertainty for the local community, and we had hoped to complete our assessment and bring the application to the planning committee for a decision.

“The land at Cupar North is still allocated for strategic development within the current Local Development Plan. As part of our ongoing review of the Plan, we will consider future development options for Cupar.

“We recognise there will be a period of uncertainty while this work is carried out. We intend to publish a Proposed Plan later this year, followed by a public consultation across Fife.”