Owner tests water with outline application to demolish Lundin Links Hotel
A prominent Fife hotel could be torn down and its site completely redeveloped if radical new proposals being put forward this week are pursued.
- By Craig Smith
- Published in the Courier : 21.02.12
- Published online : 21.02.12 @ 04.54pm
Owners of the Lundin Links Hotel have submitted plans which could see the hotel turned into 36 flats, four terraced houses and 400 square metres for retail or mixed use, although the ambitious blueprints for the area are still at a very early stage.
The hotel prides itself on being close to some of Fife's most stunning coastline and some of the most beautiful golf courses in the world and, as such, attracts visitors from all over the world.
However, continued difficulty with current trading conditions and seasonality is said to be making the business unviable — prompting proprietor Martin White to test the options for redevelopment and change of use prior to making any decisions on its future.
A statement by Rick Finc Associates, acting on behalf of Mr White, revealed the current building needs around £300,000 of investment to enable it to compete effectively as a venue in the future but said it has not been possible to attract alternative operators, adding there is ''limited prospect'' for its continued use in the current market.
''The proposed development presents a positive opportunity to redevelop this site with a suitable mix of residential properties, including affordable housing provision and enhanced local services comprising of new retail and leisure facilities which would enhance the town centre,'' it said.
''Although technically this is a departure from the local plan it will have a positive effect of sustaining existing services and providing a stimulus for additional trade which is currently lost to the area.''
The three-star hotel, acquired by Mr White in 2010, employs five full- and three part-time staff on a seasonal basis, although occupancy levels have tailed off and the figures for the last three years have been at the 70% level.
Although there are no immediate plans for closure of the business, the planning statement notes that there is no prospect of trading profitably into 2013/14 — potentially paving the way for the options currently on the table.
The statement goes on to suggest residential development would introduce a new population and a different demographic to result in a ''greater degree of vibrancy'' for the area, while retail development — likely to take the form of a convenience store and another unit — would provide new choice and variety for convenience and ''walk-in'' provision.
''It would improve the vitality and viability of the existing town centre which is limited in the range of available provision and services necessitating outward bound journeys to nearby centres of St Andrews and Cupar,'' the agent's statement continues.
''The new proposals will reduce leakage of expenditure, encourage new businesses and increase local service employment.''
Planning consent in principle has been applied for, although more detailed plans are expected to come forward if that permission is granted by Fife Council.
08.21pm - 21.02.2012 Louise (ex Fife) - Alyth , Scotland Report This
Noooo! They can't pull down a local landmark like the Double L! It is an extremely attractive brick built building - not many of them left. Needs more parking spaces to attract custom though. There are plenty other sites for a convenience store. Treasure your heritage!
01.43pm - 22.02.2012 faither - Dundee, UK Report This
Oh for heaven's sake let's have no more of the "it's a pretty building,let's keep it" nonsense. The guy has invested money in it, has tried to develop it as a business and it's not working out. Let him sell it and replace it with something that might be more successful.
02.09pm - 22.02.2012 Mrs Young - Edinburgh, Scotland Report This
It seems obvious that this was Mr White's intention when he bought the Hotel. I know there is a significant demand for accomodation in the East Neuk of Fife as I am a frequent visitor. This is profiteering at the expense of the Lundin Links charm. Disgraceful.
08.44pm - 12.03.2012 working folk. - Lower largo, Leven Report This
Could all please consider those of us whom are living in private rentals as we cannot afford to buy property in lundin links nor lower or upper largo.We work long hours most of us earning between k11-k23.many of us on the council housing waiting list for many years.affordable housing would be best.
03.04pm - 12.04.2012 Mark Henderson - Kennoway, Fife Report This
There is huge demand for affordable low or lower cost housing in the Largo area and further along the coast to the east neuk. Those who wish for the LL hotel to remain as is should post their chqs to the current owner to help with the upkeep.......no didn't think so..... PULL IT DOWN.....PROGRESS.
04.27pm - 06.05.2012 RW - Aberdeen, Scotland Report This
Cultural vandalism, pure and simple by Mr White. You want progress? You want affordable housing? Mr White is proposing SHELTERED HOUSING. Those of you waiting for affordable housing have no friend in Mr White! Read the facts for yourself on Fife Council's planning website.
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