Anger as plans for hotel in Fife town given green light

Councillors rejected plans for a 90-bed hotel and 100-bed accommodation at Abbey Park last year, citing concerns about the demand and the impact the development would have on neighbours.

However, after an appeal by Robertson Property, a reporter has given the plan the go ahead, saying that it accords with the development plan and that there are no material considerations which would justify rejecting the application.

“We are astounded at the result,” said Sandra Stewart, communication officer for the Abbey Park Residents’ Action Group.

“The reporter has over-turned the decision of the democratically elected members of the planning committee who voted unanimously to reject the planning application.

“The steering group met yesterday and have taken legal advice regarding our next steps and we have several options open to us.

“We are currently giving serious consideration to these and will formulate our strategy within the next week. This will then be put to the wider community for agreement.”

David Westwater, development director, Robertson Property, said he was “satisfied” with the decision, adding: “These plans will deliver much needed hotel and student accommodation for St Andrews which in turn will bring significant benefits to the town.

“We will continue to have open and positive dialogue with all the stakeholders as we move forward with the development.”

Cllr Brian Thomson said the decision was “not surprising”, adding: “I agree with residents that a hotel and student accommodation are not compatible with the surrounding quiet neighbourhood, however, the reporter had to assess the proposal against the development plan and, in planning planning terms, it complies with it.”

Cllr Thomson added: “The way the area has been developed has ended up maximising profits for developers, rather than providing what’s best for the community.”