Dunfermline, Scotland’s ancient capital, feels like the ideal place to explore new ways for communities to influence decisions.
This weekend saw the first meeting of the Dunfermline New City Assembly — a project close to my heart as someone born and raised in the city. Working with many local community groups, Fife Council and the Scottish Government to bring it to life has shown how people from different organisations with a shared belief in strong communities can do good things.
It’s a chance for Dunfermline residents to help shape their city’s future and contribute to the wider story of how Fife and Scottish democracy continues to evolve.
The first weekend of three is just the beginning, but it is a fantastic foundation for something really significant.
The Assembly brings together 35 residents selected through a civic lottery, creating a group that reflects the diversity of Dunfermline.
From the first session, it was clear that participants are determined to make a real difference, and make something productive from the Assembly and not become a ‘talking shop’. Too many processes in the past have asked for people’s views without delivering tangible change. Everyone involved in organising this Assembly recognises that it will ultimately be judged on whether it leaves a meaningful legacy. The seriousness and energy that participants brought to the weekend reinforces the responsibility we all share to ensure the process leads to action.
What I witnessed captured the deeper value of deliberative democracy. People were curious, thoughtful and generous with one another, willing to listen deeply and share their lived experiences. These early conversations build the trust and human connection that modern democracy often struggles to create. When people sit together and talk openly about their hopes for their city, barriers soften and understanding grows.
Over the coming sessions, participants will explore the question: “As our city grows and develops, how do we continue to improve our community for today and tomorrow?”. They’ll hear from experts and discuss key issues like community cohesion, but the process itself is as important as the recommendations they will eventually make to the Dunfermline Area Committee. Citizens’ assemblies not only generate well considered proposals – but they also help rebuild trust, strengthen social bonds and create a shared sense of ownership over the future.
I’m quietly optimistic about what lies ahead. The Dunfermline Assembly has brought together a representative group of residents who care deeply about their city and want to contribute to its future. This small sample of residents are experienced, thoughtful and determined then it seems logical to assume so is the whole city. That potential is on its way to being realised, and this assembly will show that there is a whole lot more to be ambitious about.
Find out about the Dunfermline New City Assembly