An East Neuk pub has promised to work with the local community after being granted permission to change the way it operates.
Members of Fife’s licensing board allowed the owners of Elie’s Ship Inn to alter the layout of the premises, add accommodation and increase its capacity, as part of a number of changes at the venue.
The unanimous approval came despite six public objections to the proposals.
Addressing the board, solicitor Andrew Williams, who represented owners Graham and Rachel Bucknall, said that the couple were keen to play their part in creating a thriving business that operated responsibly in the community.
In relation to concerns about traffic congestion, he said: “A number of objections express concern in relation to parking and traffic.
“The owners have been aware of problems and are prepared to work to minimise traffic and will offer a pick-up and return service in Elie, so that customers don’t need to bring their cars.
“A lot of the customers will be local and they want to work as closely as possible with them.”
The owners purchased the Ship Inn last November, after having won a number of awards for their management of the Bridge Inn at Ratho.
While keen to bolster the pub’s reputation as an eaterie, the couple also stated from the beginning of their ownership that they would like to add bedrooms to the premises.
Not one of the six objectors attended a meeting in Kirkcaldy, although it was claimed that only one actually resided in Elie.
One of the major variations to the venue’s licence was in relation to capacity, with the new owners originally seeking an increase to 262 patrons.
Mr Williams stated yesterday, however, that this had been revised down following a discussion with Fife Council officers.
“The owners are happy to agree with the figure of 212 for the building,” he added.
The new management also acquired The 19th Hole in Earlsferry last year.
At Monday’s meeting, the board also accepted a request to start on and off sales from 10am daily at the premises on Links Road.