Leven businesses fear for future after high street Poundstretcher blaze

Businesses in Leven say they’re not sure what the future holds after a fire ripped through three shops.

Emergency services were called to the scene at 2am on Tuesday morning after the blaze broke out at a Poundstretcher store.

Neighbouring businesses have been forced to close as work continues to secure the building.

Keith Stuart, the owner of Stuarts Bakers and Butcher told STV News: “This is one of our busier shops.

“We have got some orders placed already for Christmas and we are trying to reach out to those customers to ensure them their order is safe but you’ll have to pick it up at another branch or we’ll deliver it.

“You can see this shop is not going to be open for Christmas.

“Not having a shop on the High street is a sore one to take, I’m not going to lie but we have to make the best of a bad situation and look how we can move forward in the future.”

At its height, there were 60 firefighters and 16 appliances sent to battle the blaze.

The crews didn’t leave until scene 8.30pm on Tuesday night.

Work is underway to secure the buildings and reopen part of the town’s high street which has been closed due to safety concerns.

Councillor Colin Davidson, Fife Council: We’re trying hard to co-ordinate the loss adjusters and owners of the buildings in a way we can bring it to a swift conclusion, get the building demolished and start to plan for the future.

“It’s essential for people and the residents of the Levenmouth area that we get this site cleared as quickly as possible and get the high street reopened.”

Police Scotland has issued an appeal for anyone who was in the area between 11pm on Monday, November 7, and 2am on Tuesday, November 8 to come forward.