Figures released have shown that as of April last year, Dunfermline shop vacancy rates stood at 18.1%. Since then we have seen some high profile departures such as the disappointing loss of Visit Scotland, and I have some concerns. While Dunfermline has by no means the highest vacancy rate in Fife, other towns such as St Andrews are doing much better.

Obviously there are many benefits in having a town centre with lots of shops – it will increase footfall and be beneficial to all businesses. However this figure has increased from 12.71% in 2009 and shows that more needs to be done. Despite apparent growth in the economy since that time, this has not translated into businesses.

I do applaud the efforts of Dunfermline Delivers, but the Council should step in and provide the economic incentives to boost businesses, including small independent shops. This would be an improvement for all and I will continue to monitor this situation closely.