Fife Town's Historic Cinema to Be Demolished After Devastating Fire

On September 23rd, 2025, a former cinema in Lochgelly, Fife was severely damaged in a fire. Fire crews raced to the scene on Bank Street to extinguish the blaze. Two teenage boys, aged 13 and 14, were later arrested in connection with the incident and referred to youth justice authorities.

Following an assessment by engineers, Fife Council's building standards team has concluded that the former cinema building is dangerous and must be demolished. Tenants from four council flats adjacent to the cinema have been evacuated and will be temporarily re-housed while the demolition work takes place.

"The whole building will have to be demolished. It's unfortunate that we won't be able to save any part of it, but it's simply not viable," said Garry Nicol, the council's service manager for building standards and public safety. "Our priority must be public safety and the needs of the local residents and businesses."

The demolition work is expected to begin as soon as possible, though the full extent of the damage and required work remains uncertain. Fife Council has assured the public that they will work to minimize disruption during the process.