A former training building in Low Valleyfield is being given a new lease of life by InvestFife’s Property Team, as it is hoped to become a new home to more creative businesses.

Forthview Business Units, Low Valleyfield, the former home to West Fife Enterprise’s training centre, has been revamped to make space for local businesses seeking office space. A fresh coat of paint, new carpets and signage have all improved the 14,000 sq. ft. building, with further works to the exterior being completed.

Currently, there are eight tenants benefiting from the office space, whilst there are a further three units (two large offices and one small office) available for rent.

Ruth Downie, who runs SoMuchSoap and Stained Glass, moved into her new business premises at Forthview Business Units in October 2020, and hasn’t looked back. The space and light work perfectly, and her plan is to teach stained glass from the premises.

Ruth Downie commented:

“I wasn’t looking for business premises, as I didn’t think I could afford it. But, when I accompanied a friend to Forthview, I immediately saw the potential and my existing work set-up seemed too inadequate!

“Already, having office premises has made a massive improvement, and I haven’t as yet, managed to use the space properly! I want to create a real creative buzz around the studio with students dropping in for workshop time in addition to timetabled classes. And, the space means that I can be much more efficient in my own work, and aim to build what was a very part time hobby into something much more.”

Bluebell Design is also based at Forthview Business Units having outgrown the spare room at home. Lois Bell had been looking for suitable, affordable premises for some time, and Forthview hit the spot, located just ten minutes from her home and offering her the space needed. Lois moved her dressmaking and alterations business into her new premises in September 2020.

Lois Bell of Bluebell Design, said:

“I now have an awful lot more space and can easily see all my supplies and get to all my machines and tools. I plan to run classes, and this space will allow me to do that without having to rent a room for that purpose.

“I’ve been busy over the late spring and summer with bridal and wedding projects, as happily these celebrations are taking place again. I have begun sewing lessons in my studio, on a one-to-one basis for the moment, and have several craft classes designed, which will be ready to open for student registration soon.”

Derek Bayne, Lead Officer, Property Management, at Fife Council, commented:

“Forthview Business Units are a relatively new addition to our portfolio and we’re very much leasing the units on a room-by-room basis. There are just three units available, ranging from 137 sq. ft. up to 1,024 sq. ft., which are located less than six miles from Dunfermline, making this venue a handy, semi-rural location, ideal for creative businesses.”

InvestFife’s Property Team, which falls into the remit of Fife Council Economic Development, is marketing these business units for lease. For more information, please email: fifemeansbusiness@fife.gov.uk or visit our business units page here.