FAMILIES in Chalmers Street say they’re scared to leave their homes at night in the wake of a fire at a Dunfermline solicitors’ offices last month.

Four fire engines raced to the fire at W&AS Bruce on August 21 after being alerted by hero takeaway boss Baljit Singh (see story on page 3).

As the Press reported last week, a 12-year-old youth was reported in connection with the fire and groups of teenagers have been hanging around Chalmers Street throughout the summer, according to residents.

One resident, who did not wish to be named, said: "It's been absolute hell. They've been throwing stones at windows and cars in the car park, setting bins on fire, running between closes and generally just causing trouble. Some people are scared to walk their dogs right now and are having to wait for them to clear before they go out. 

"It's really scary right now. It's a pack mentality with truly horrible and nasty people.

"It's the first thing I think about in the morning and the last thing at night. At the worst of times it's like living in a war zone. I'm just thinking when is it going to end?"

Another resident added: “I have a fantastic view of the car park so I know what goes on. There’s large groups of teenagers hanging round the area, especially at St Margaret’s Cave.

"It’s been a nightmare with them stealing bins and setting them on fire. It happens nearly every day."

They have taken their concerns to Dunfermline and West Fife MSP Shirley-Anne Somerville, who is keen to see long-term plans to address the issue implemented. 

Ms Somerville said: “Residents in the area are concerned. I’m working directly with the police to see if more patrols can be put in place and further action taken.

"People living in the area are scared to leave their property and go out in the evening and into the town centre. 

“It’s completely unacceptable and distressing for the individuals involved living so close to such behaviour. It has an impact on their life and their confidence to go out in the evening, especially female residents.”

She met Chief Inspector and Area Commander for Dunfermline and Cowdenbeath, Irene Ralston, on Thursday to discuss plans.

She added: “I’m reassured police are taking this seriously and every effort is in place to alleviate the problem in the area. Police are ensuring further patrols are in place, as well as diversional activities for people so it’s not a case of the behaviour moving somewhere else in the town centre.”