South Street Pavement to be Extended

Fife Council has announced that the pavement extensions on South Street, which widen the footpaths, are to become permanent, with construction commencing on Monday 12 October.

Construction will be completed in four phases; the first phase will take place between West Port Gate and Bell Street. It is expected to end on 27 November. The entire project is scheduled to be completed on 13 June 2027. 

Construction will be paused during key holiday periods. No work will be completed from either 28 November 2026 to 3 January 2027 or from 26 March 2027 to 9 April 2027. 

Temporary traffic lights and parking restrictions will be implemented during construction. However, pedestrian access will not be affected by the programme. 

Throughout the project, five build-out areas will be completed. These extensions — which are now being made permanent — provide additional space that restaurants and cafes can use for outdoor seating. 

Additionally, further public amenities will be provided by the Council. These include four additional disabled parking spaces, a new zebra crossing, benches, cycle parking racks, trees, and loading areas. 

According to Fife Council, this project “forms part of the Council’s ongoing investment in active travel and public realm improvements within St Andrews town centre.”

Pavements on South Street were first extended in 2021 during the COVID-19 pandemic as a means of facilitating social distancing. A new, permanent layout for South Street was first proposed in November 2024. On 12 March 2025, councillors on the North East Planning Committee agreed to make the South Street extensions permanent. 

“These permanent improvements build on the success of the temporary measures, creating a safer and more welcoming environment while supporting the town centre’s long-term appeal,” stated Councillor Altany Craik. 

Project drawings are available on Fife Council’s website. 

Image Courtesy of Ciara Lord