A historic lighthouse which was removed to make way for the new Queensferry Crossing has the potential to become an iconic gateway to Fife, according to an MSP.
Liz Smith, Scottish Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland and Fife, has called on Transport Scotland to bring forward firm proposals for the future sighting of the Beamer Rock lighthouse.
Ms Smith has backed calls for the lighthouse to be sighted in Fife, with North Queensferry in pole position to become the future home for the tower.
The Beamer Rock lighthouse was built in 1826 and was removed in 2011 in order for the rock to become the base of the new Queensferry Crossing’s central tower.
Ms Smith has written to Transport Scotland calling on them to bring forward proposals for the permanent siting of the Beamer Rock lighthouse.
She said: “The reconstruction of the Beamer Rock lighthouse has the potential to become an iconic gateway to Fife as well as preserving what was one of Scotland’s most recognised lighthouses.
“The lighthouse was removed in 2011 and since then the future location of the lighthouse has not been clear.
“As far as I am aware the lighthouse has been put into storage, however its future is currently uncertain.
“There is clearly a strong case for the lighthouse to be sited in Fife given the historical links with the northern shore of the Forth especially at Rosyth dockyard, where most of the shipping which used the light was headed.
“The lighthouse has been a significant part of marine history in the Forth for almost 200 years.
“I believe the time has come for Transport Scotland to outline their proposals for the siting of the lighthouse.”
A Transport Scotland spokesman said: “In recognition of its historical value, Beamer Rock lighthouse was carefully removed from the Firth of Forth as part of the FRC project.
“We understand that Fife Council are independently examining the feasibility of its relocation in Fife.”
Work is well under way to construct the new 1.7 mile bridge which will be a cable-stayed structure with three towers.