The project will convert the former FabTek site off Hall Street into a vibrant, sustainable community featuring 45 energy-efficient social rented homes, two retail units and 55 car parking spaces. 

The long-dormant site, which previously housed the industrial unit and a local pub, is being delivered as part of the Fife Housing Association Alliance and is partially funded by the Vacant and Derelict Land Fund (VDLF), which supports the transformation of long‑standing vacant and derelict sites.

Kingdom Housing Association is managing the development process on behalf of Ore Valley Housing Association, which will take ownership of the homes upon completion. Fife-based Campion Homes is the construction partner on the project.

Designed by ECD Architects, with engineering services by BSA, the project uses a ‘fabric-first’ approach to keep fuel bills low and reduce carbon emissions. Over 80% of the energy-efficient homes are designed as compact flats to minimise heat loss, with nearly three-quarters facing south to capture natural solar warmth. Modern low-carbon features include high heat retention storage heaters, airtight building envelopes and solar PV panels.

The multi-million-pound investment will transform a long-dormant town centre gap site into a vibrant community hub. The housing mix includes 1-2 bedroom flats and cottage flats, 2-3 bedroom houses and a 2-bedroom bungalow.

The layout will repair the streetscape along High Street and Hall Street with new retail spaces, while creating a new public open space near the historic Town House. 

Nick Clark, chief executive of Ore Valley Housing Association, said: “This significant step marks a key turning point in the regeneration of a site that has sat vacant for far too long. We are grateful to our partners, including Kingdom Housing Association, Campion Homes, ECD Architects, BSA Engineers and the Scottish Government, who have worked tirelessly to overcome the complex ground conditions, historical mine shafts and steep topography this land presented.

“Given the ongoing local and national housing emergencies, these 45 energy-efficient homes and modern retail spaces will make a real difference, helping to boost the supply of high-quality affordable housing while injecting new life into Lochgelly town centre.”

Dougie Herd, joint managing director at Campion Homes, said: “Starting work on this site is a major milestone for Lochgelly. Regenerating brownfield sites presents unique engineering challenges, but turning a derelict space into high-quality, energy-efficient homes is immensely rewarding.

“Having been involved from the outset alongside Kingdom Housing Association, Ore Valley Housing Association and the design team, we’ve focused heavily on ensuring early cost viability and site enabling. We look forward to delivering sustainable, low-carbon homes that local residents can be proud of while supporting the local economy throughout the build process.”

Tricia Hill, Kingdom Housing Association’s asset management and development director, said: “We’re pleased to see this long-awaited project taking shape, bringing 45 much-needed affordable homes to the heart of the local community. Our strong partnership with Campion Homes and Ore Valley Housing Association has allowed us to overcome any challenges and move forward with the development of this key site.”