Forth Ports urged to meet community amid anger over Burntisland Docks fences plan

Mark Ruskell MSP said permanently blocking them would be “a huge loss to the community.”He has written to Forth Ports calling on them to meet, and find an alternative solution.

The organisation is in the process of preparing a planning application to Fife Council to put up the fences after a safety review.

But the plans have sparked a huge backlash in the town with a petition against the move attracting over 1300 signatures since it went online less than two days ago.

The port has been an integral part of the town for centuries, and the docks are used by many people on a daily basis.

It is also a turning point for hourly bus services in the town.

Locals believe the safety issues could be addressed without denying people access.

https://www.fifetoday.co.uk/news/people/forth-ports-plan-to-fence-off-burntisland-docks-triggers-huge-backlash-3147004

Mr Ruskell, who represents Mid Scotland and Fife for the Greens, said: “The docks are a popular spot with local residents.

“Permanently fencing them off would be a huge loss to the community, especially at this time when open space where social distancing can be maintained is very valuable for everyone.”

He added: “It’s not clear why Forth Ports have decided to make this move now, when there has been open access at the site for decades with no obvious change in circumstances.”Mr Ruskell said the community had put forward a number of alternative ideas including retaining an access path along the breakwater, local teams of litter pickers to help keep the site clean, and interpretation panels to create interest and build respect for the area.

Derek Knox, senior port manager for Burntisland said the plan to fence off the docks came after a “thorough safety review of the areas that the public have access to in and around the working port.”

“Following consultation with local community groups and discussions with Fife Council, we will submit our proposal to Fife Council’s planning team shortly.”He added: “As a working port, the safety of the public, our staff and customers comes first.”

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