A historic Tay pier reinstated in a style described as more suited to the Thames has become the subject of a planning row.
Pleasure boat operator Dennis Beattie spent thousands of pounds repairing and levelling his pier by East Shore House, Newburgh.
However, the work had no planning permission and Fife Council has refused retrospective consent for a stone wall and railings around the quayside, stating they are incongruous with the riverside setting and traditional-style neighbouring piers and harbours.
The pier was used by industries from the early 1900s until it was decommissioned in the 1970s and left to fall into disrepair. Its renovation has created controversy, with some people complaining it is out of keeping with the rest of the waterfront but others saying it has enhanced the area.
Mr Beattie, who claims he was advised planning permission was not required, has vowed to appeal against the council’s decision.
He said he wanted to create access to the river for disabled people, and added: ”The council has a damn cheek trying to stop this. There is no way anyone can get on boats here if they are in a wheelchair and disabled people have the same right to enjoy the river as anyone else.”
As well as improving the look of the quayside, he claims the reinstatement of the pier has made it safe.
”It was a tip people were throwing their rubbish into it,” he said. ”The pier was sagging. If anyone did go on to it there was a chance of breaking their leg or neck.”
Howe of Fife and Tay Coast councillor David MacDiarmid is a member of the North-East area Fife committee which declined planning permission. He said he was shocked to see a ”fairly large redevelopment” of the historic harbour.
”I find it incredible that works went on for months without planning authority consent. This would be well suited, perhaps, to the Thames, but not the Tay.”
Plans are afoot for redevelopment of the town’s other piers, which are owned by Newburgh Community Trust. A detailed survey is being carried out.