Outdoor sauna at Kinghorn beach gets green light
Visitors to Kinghorn beach look set to be able to take advantage of a new sauna facility.
Planning permission to site the timber cabin at 29 St James Place has been granted by Fife Council.
The application from Tidal Soul Sauna explained that the proposal for the facility would add a wellbeing element to a run-down part of the seafront.
It added: “The design draws inspiration from Scandinavian sauna traditions, combining natural materials and sustainable off-grid systems to create a wellness space that harmonises with the coastal landscape.
“The project supports local wellbeing, outdoor recreation, and small-scale tourism consistent with the principles of sustainable coastal development. It was previously used a café.”
A report by planners said the site currently contains the remains of a former house which has fallen into “significant disrepair”.
“The proposal comprises a small sauna for up to eight users operating on a booked session basis between 7:00am and 6:00pm,” it continued.
“Limited ancillary facilities would be provided including cold water bathing, access to sea immersion and a picnic bench. Sessions would last around 55 minutes with cleaning between uses. Following consultation with Public Protection, the applicant has amended the proposal so that the sauna would be heated by an electric system rather than a solid fuel stove.”
Approving the application, the report added: “The proposed temporary sauna cabin would represent an appropriate reuse of a derelict and visually harmful site.
“The development would be modest in scale, compatible with its coastal setting and capable of being accommodated without unacceptable impacts on residential amenity, road safety, flood risk or the natural environment.”