Fife community vows to save lifeboat station built in 1904 from demolition

Councillors unanimously backed proposals for a new shed during the north east planning committee, but were more split on the future of the current shed.

They were told that it might be 12-18 months before demolition work starts, and alternative plans for parking could be put forward before then, preserving the building. The new station is due to be built at the East Shore car park, with the old shed demolished to make room for car parking.

It was only the councillors gave the go ahead to the new station that they were told that rejecting the second application, for demolition, would mean the RNLI would not be able to comply with the conditions for the new shed.

Speaking after the decision, Kilrenny, Anstruther and Cellardyke Community Council, which had objected to the plans for demolition, said it was “delighted” the new shed had been approved, but “bitterly disappointed” plans to demolish the old shed had also been given the go ahead.

Andrew Peddie, chairman, said: “There is strong feeling in the community to preserve the old shed, for it’s history and the valuable potential community and commercial uses.”

He claimed Fife Council’s transportation department was invited to several meetings to discuss the plans – but the offers were not taken up.

He added: “The fight does not stop here. Permission to demolish does not mean it has to happen. The old shed will still be in use for the 12-18 month build period. We intend to explore structures for community ownership of the building ready to take ownership from RNLI when required.

“There are issues with parking and traffic management in the town, which require more work. We believe we can work with all concerned to find solutions for these issues and preserve our much valued lifeboat shed.”

The old shed was built in 1904, with other elements added later.

Councillor Linda Holt, who objected to the demolition plans, said she was “very disappointed” with the decision.

She voiced concerns that alternative plans for parking might not be put forward.

She added: “Exploring options for the retention of the old shed should have happened long before these applications came to committee, and it is highly negligent of Fife Council to have ignored the need for an overall parking strategy for Anstruther for so long. That need has now become critical, or else Anstruther will lose a much-loved local heritage building.”