The Dunfermline New City Assembly brought together local residents to help shape a long-term vision for Scotland’s newest city.

Delivered during 2025/26, the project was a collaborative initiative between Fife Council, the Electoral Reform Society Scotland, the Scottish Government and independent evaluators. It aimed to strengthen participatory democracy by giving people a direct and meaningful role in influencing how Dunfermline grows and develops.

Through this innovative approach, residents were supported to consider key challenges, explore opportunities and agree practical recommendations for the city’s future.

Working in partnership, the project assembled a diverse group of 31 residents, selected through a process similar to jury duty to reflect the makeup of the local population. Over three weekends at the start of 2026, participants came together to explore the question: “We all want Dunfermline to be a great place to call home. As our city grows and develops, how do we continue to improve our community for today and tomorrow?”

Supported by expert input and facilitated discussion, participants shared their own experiences, learned about key issues affecting the city and worked collaboratively to identify priorities for the future.

Across 38 hours of deliberation, the group developed a shared vision for Dunfermline alongside 12 clear calls to action. These recommendations set out practical steps to support sustainable growth, enhance community wellbeing and ensure that the city continues to meet the needs of its residents. Importantly, the process achieved 100% participant retention, demonstrating strong engagement and commitment throughout.

The impact of the Assembly extended beyond the formal recommendations. Participants reported increased confidence, new connections and a greater understanding of local issues and decision-making processes.

One participant reflected:

“I hope it’s going to be introduced to the wider population so everybody will have the chance to voice their concerns and ideas,” while another shared,

“It’s opened my eyes to what’s required in Dunfermline, and I’ve made great friends.”

These experiences highlight the wider social value of the approach, helping to build stronger, more connected communities.

The project directly supports the Plan for Fife ambition of ensuring communities and individuals are more involved in local decision-making and in helping to plan and deliver local services. By placing residents at the heart of shaping their city’s future, the Assembly demonstrates how public services can work in partnership with communities to co-produce meaningful change.

Following the publication of the Assembly’s summary report, the project has now moved into its next phase. This focuses on working with partners across the city to develop a co-produced action plan, translating the Assembly’s recommendations into deliverable outcomes. This ongoing collaborative approach will ensure that the voices of residents continue to influence decision-making and help shape Dunfermline’s future in a sustainable and inclusive way.