Plans to Develop Anstruther Harbour
6 June 2008
Ryden, in partnership with Environ, is undertaking a feasibility study into what could be a major project in the popular Anstruther Harbour. Fife Council and the Anstruther Community Regeneration Project (ACRP) will use the study to prepare the business case for the re-development of the Harbourmaster's Office (HMO), toilet block and the Herring Ring site, owned by Fife Council.
There is potential to create a modern and unique building for Fife's East Neuk on this prominent site that will incorporate best practice in sustainable design, replacing the existing property which would be demolished. The success of Anstruther's marina has led to increased demand for facilities from visitors and a tourist information and education facility could be incorporated into a development that may also see a new restaurant, toilets, showers and laundry rooms as well as the relocation of the Harbourmaster's Office to an elevated position.
Ryden will consult Anstruther residents, schools and businesses to understand their aspirations for the site and will speak to potential occupiers and users of the proposed development to ensure it has market potential. The priority is to ensure that this development will work commercially and for the community. A sustainability framework will be put in place by ENVIRON to ensure the proposals create a benchmark in low carbon development and energy efficiency. The resulting proposals could have long term benefits for Anstruther and East Fife by raising the town's profile, attracting visitors along the Fife Coastal Path, boosting the local economy and improving facilities available to the Anstruther community.
A final report into the project's feasibility and a business case will be submitted to Fife Council and ACRP in September. Funding for this consultancy work is has been secured from Awards For All, Fife Council development services, Fife Tourism Alliance, the East Neuk Locality budget, and Fife Police.
Fiona Clandillon, associate at Ryden, said: "It’s great to be involved in a project that allows us to bring our expertise in market knowledge and property research to a town such as Anstruther and a site as attractive as this. We aim to ensure our plans are not just feasible but bring the greatest possible benefits to the town. The client's wish for a development that is commercially and environmentally sustainable is very welcome."
