Popular seaside town dubbed a ‘must-visit' set for HUGE £16million retail and restaurant development

The Sun

01-05-2025

A POPULAR seaside town, renowned for its charm and historical significance, is set to undergo a major £16 million transformation.
St Andrews, located on the east coast of Fife, is at the heart of this exciting development.
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This ambitious retail and restaurant development promises to reshape the town's landscape, bringing new business opportunities, jobs, and amenities to the area.
The project is poised to enhance the town's appeal, solidifying its status as one of the UK's must-visit coastal destinations.
Famous worldwide for its golf heritage and stunning coastal views, the town attracts both tourists and locals alike.
Now, the £16 million investment is set to bring new retail spaces, restaurants, offices, and business units to the outskirts, particularly around the Craigtoun area.
This development will not only create around 170 new jobs but will also boost the local economy and provide much-needed amenities to support the growing population.
The proposed project, submitted to Fife Council by West Coast Estates, will introduce new restaurants, office spaces, and business units to the western edge of St Andrews, specifically at Craigtoun.
If approved, this development is expected to create around 170 permanent jobs and provide a significant boost to the local economy.
Additionally, a further 100 jobs are expected to be generated during the construction phase, contributing to a vibrant future for the town.
St Andrews is not just famous for its golf courses – it's also a hub for tourism and culture.
Visitors flock to its stunning beaches, including the West Sands, which was featured in the iconic film Chariots of Fire.
The town's historic charm, combined with modern amenities, makes it a magnet for both locals and tourists alike.
Its mix of ancient landmarks, including St Andrews Castle and the famed university, with modern cultural offerings, ensures it remains a top destination year-round.
West Coast Estates, the developers behind this ambitious project, believe that the £16 million investment will deliver long-term economic benefits.
Director Ifikar Mian explained, 'The site is ideally located to provide much-needed amenities and services for the community, and it will play a key role in the wider Craigtoun Masterplan.'
This will include over 1,000 homes in addition to the retail and business spaces, ensuring the area remains vibrant and accessible for residents and visitors.
The inclusion of new homes will also cater to the increasing demand for accommodation in this picturesque and bustling town.
The developers are confident that the new development will become a dynamic and attractive area for businesses to establish themselves.
The plan aligns with St Andrews' growing reputation as a thriving, must-visit destination, offering not only breathtaking views and historic sites but now, enhanced commercial facilities.
The £500,000 in annual business rates generated by the development will go a long way in supporting essential local services, making it a win-win for the community.
For residents, the added retail and restaurant spaces mean more options for shopping and dining, something that has long been requested by the local community.
The development will also bring new opportunities for local entrepreneurs and businesses, providing them with the space to grow and thrive in a rapidly expanding town.
With St Andrews' blend of historical significance and modern lifestyle, the addition of these facilities will make the town an even more attractive place to live, work, and visit.
Tourism, a key industry for the town, will also see benefits from the development.
With the addition of new restaurants and business units, visitors will have even more reason to explore this renowned town.
St Andrews has long been a magnet for golf enthusiasts, history buffs, and nature lovers, but with these new offerings, the town is ready to attract an even wider range of tourists, including those interested in a vibrant food scene and diverse retail experiences.
This transformation could reshape St Andrews, maintaining its status as one of Scotland's top coastal towns while meeting the growing demand for modern services.
The £500,000 in annual business rates generated by the development will go a long way in supporting essential local services, making it a win-win for the community.
As the development moves forward, it's clear that St Andrews is poised to remain at the forefront of Scotland's coastal charm while expanding its business and economic prospects.
In the long run, the plans for Craigtoun are not just about economic growth but also about fostering a thriving, sustainable community.
With an increased number of residents and businesses in the area, local schools, healthcare facilities, and other amenities are expected to receive additional support.
The project's forward-thinking design and community focus are expected to set the tone for the future development of St Andrews, ensuring it remains a beacon of success in Scotland's coastal towns for years to come.
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