The local authority took control of the dilapidated shopping centre when compulsory purchase orders (CPOs) were issued for the privately-owned flats situated above.

It has now approved plans to demolish the building as part of ambitious plans to redevelop the site and breathe new life into the west of the town.

Cllr Fiona Grant, the council’s Glenrothes area committee convener, said the decision will means residents of the Glenwood Centre will be moving to a permanent new home that meets their housing needs.

Cllr Grant said: “This is fantastic news for the whole area and particularly for the residents. They now have a clear idea of what the plans mean for them and reassurance that their housing needs are being given top priority.

“The wider community can also look forward to seeing things start to happen on the site and the plans for the regeneration of the area become a reality.”