Another empty shop in Leven, Fife, has undergone redevelopment with the help of the Levenmouth Vacant Property Grant.

Fiona's Diner is the latest business to take advantage of the grant scheme from Fife Council.

The new-start café business taken over the ground and first floor units at 74 High Street, where the former Brydies Bakery has lain empty for more than a year.

Before the business could open, the property needed a range of shop-fitting & improvement work carried out.

The Vacant Property Grant helped towards the cost of a new kitchen, toilets & security system. In addition, as a new start, the café also received invaluable help from the Business Gateway 'Be Your Own Boss' Initiative, with planning the new venture.


Alistair Burns, owner of Fiona’s Diner, said: "The Vacant Property Grant, combined with the Business Gateway support, and the catering – hospitality training from the Kirkland High & Community College, has been vital in helping us realise our ambitions for the café – to get the building fit for purpose & ready to serve the public again. As well as helping us, the grant is helping to uplift the Town Centre.

"The diner will provide jobs for up to eight people, with seating capacity on both floors, plus a children’s play area upstairs."

The new Fife Council Grant can give up to £5,000 per rateable unit towards a variety of investment projects in empty shops and other vacant commercial premises, including physical improvements inside and out, such as structural work and redecoration.

(JP/CD)