Plans for new Scottish resort with 91 holiday homes rejected after abandoned site branded a ‘death trap'
RETREAT BLOW Plans for new Scottish resort with 91 holiday homes rejected after abandoned site branded a 'death trap'
Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window)
Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
CONTROVERSIAL plans to turn an abandoned WWII airfield into a holiday destination have been grounded by the government.
Developers wanted to transform Crail Airfield and build a hotel, museum and market hall amid claims the scheme would generate millions for the local economy.
Sign up for Scottish Sun
newsletter
Sign up
2
Crail Airfield is a historic Cold War site located in Fife
Credit: Fife Council
They also wanted to include 91 holiday units and small business premises at the site near the popular coastal location in Fife.
But locals refused to back the scheme to develop the historic airfield that last saw service in the Cold War.
Crail Community Council said it could create a 'death trap' with an estimated 1,300 extra vehicles attempting to access the site each week.
West Lothian-based Ground Developments were refused planning permission by Fife Council and went to the government in a bid to overturn the ruling.
A government reporter has now rejected the scheme.
An appeal document on the developer's behalf said: "The Economic Impact Assessment prepared for the application estimated that the site could generate hundreds of jobs for the area over the first 10 years and add millions of pounds to the local economy.
"The appellant considers that this proposal might be one of the last chances to safeguard the future of a highly significant heritage site while bringing community benefits and economic opportunities for Crail, its local economy, and the airfield."
Historic Environment Scotland describes Crail Airfield as 'the best-preserved example' of a Second World War Naval Airfield in Scotland.
David Jerdan, chairman of Crail community council, said: "Most people agree the old airfield has turned into an eyesore and something needs to be done with it.
'But this is not the way.
The Best Value Attraction In The UK Is Flamingo Land
'If we get much more traffic passing through the narrows, it's only a matter of time before someone gets injured or worse.
'It's a potential death trap.'
There were over 200 objections to plans submitted to Fife Council for the planning application.
Rejecting the plans, the council said: "In the interests of road safety and proper planning; the application proposal by virtue of its location, form and scale would result in an unacceptable impact upon road safety as a result of introducing a significant number of additional vehicular movements to the locality which would be considered excessive in the context of the capacity of the existing local roads/transport infrastructure."
2
Plans for a new Scots holiday resort were rejected by the government
Credit: GDL
Government reporter Sue Bell said: "I have taken account of the benefits of the proposals, including redevelopment of a brownfield site listed on the Scottish Vacant and Derelict Land Survey.
"Potential benefits in terms of restoration and reuse of listed buildings cannot be secured through this application.
"However, I do not consider that these benefits are sufficient to overcome the disbenefits of the scheme."
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Time Out
4 hours ago
- Time Out
The route map for America's fastest train linking NYC to L.A. will stop in these 8 major cities
A bold new plan aims to link America's coasts by high-speed rail—Delaware-based AmeriStarRail has proposed the "Transcontinental Chief," a privately funded passenger and freight train that will take you from Los Angeles to New York in under 72 hours, with service aiming to begin by 2026. While the company still needs to secure a partnership with Amtrak to begin, plans are already coming together, including the eight major stops the proposed train will make along the route. Starting from Hoboken Terminal—reachable from Manhattan via PATH or ferry—the train heads west, skipping Penn Station due to tunnel restrictions for Amtrak's double-decker Superliners. The first leg runs to Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, where a single-level section branches toward Philly and D.C. Next is Pittsburgh, PA and then Cleveland, OH. The halfway point is Chicago, IL, America's rail hub and deep-dish capital, where the Transcontinental Chief will link with other long-distance routes. Then it's across the plains to Kansas City, MO. Rolling into the Southwest, the train will stop in Albuquerque, NM, a desert gateway along Route 66. Finally, the journey ends at Union Station in Los Angeles, CA. The train will serve 54 cities in total, but these eight anchors form its spine. AmeriStarRail says the route would replace Amtrak's "Southwest Chief" and "Pennsylvanian" services and will add truck transport via a roll-on, roll-off system—turning the train into a "rolling rest stop" for long-haul drivers. Not everyone's convinced, however. Amtrak has publicly said the plan lacks a "fundamental business case," though AmeriStarRail insists it will share details under a non-disclosure agreement. If it launches, this could be the fastest, most scenic way to traverse the country. The company hopes to begin service on May 10, 2026, which just so happens to be National Train Day. Service would also begin just in time for the 250th birthday of the U.S. and just weeks before the 2026 FIFA World Cup—exciting stuff!
Daily Record
6 hours ago
- Daily Record
Map reveals must-visit food spots for Edinburgh Fringe Festival visitors
As the Fringe returns, Edinburgh offers unforgettable food and drink experiences alongside its world-class performances. As the world's biggest arts festival returns to Edinburgh this August, the city once again becomes a vibrant stage not only for global performances but also for exceptional food and drink experiences. Whether visitors are staying for a single night or the entire festival, the city's culinary scene offers an array of unforgettable stops to enjoy between shows. With millions arriving for the Fringe, Edinburgh's food and drink venues are stepping up, delivering flavours and atmospheres that match the excitement of the festival. This guide highlights some of the most impressive spots to explore during the festival's run. Edinburgh Gin Distillery Step into Edinburgh Gin's new carbon-neutral distillery, where rooftop bars offer sweeping views and a cocktail menu featuring icy martinis, citrus spritzes, and tasting flights. Visitors can also book immersive tastings or even create their own bottle of gin. Scott's Kitchen Ideal for daytime dining or drinks on the terrace, Scott's Kitchen serves Belhaven-smoked salmon alongside creative brunch cocktails like Berry Bubbles and Rhubarb Sour. Tigerlily A festival hotspot with a seasonal Edinburgh Gin terrace bar open only during the Fringe. Enjoy a lively atmosphere with British and European dishes and refreshing cocktails. The Scottish Café & Restaurant Located in the National Gallery, this café offers artisan-led Scottish fare such as Cullen Skink and venison, using ingredients from over 70 local suppliers. The terrace is perfect for sipping a garden-inspired G&T or a classic French 75. The Newsroom Bar & Eatery A casual stop featuring playful Scottish twists on pub food, including haggis nachos and Guinness pie, alongside local ales and inventive cocktails like the Berry Bramble. The Famous Spiegeltent, St Andrew Square More than a performance venue, the Spiegeltent serves award-winning Edinburgh Gin cocktails such as the Berri Summer Slushie under its magical lights. Bonnie & Wild This vibrant food hall showcases some of Scotland's top chefs, including Gary Maclean's sustainable seafood and Tony Singh's Indian street food. Three bars offer craft beers, gins, and signature cocktails. Howies Restaurant Set in a Georgian hall, Howies offers classic Scottish dishes like East Lothian lobster with an extensive drink menu featuring local whiskies and creative cocktails. Biddy Mulligans A lively Irish pub in the Grassmarket serving hearty Irish stew, Irish Coffees, Scottish gins, and cocktails such as Fig and Fizz. The Virgin Hotel Combining Old Town charm with modern style, this 5-star hotel offers several dining and drinking options, including a curated Edinburgh Gin cocktail menu for the Fringe. La Monde Hotel A sophisticated venue with a bar, restaurant, and award-winning nightclub for those seeking a stylish night out. Nor' Loft Sip premium Scottish gin cocktails like the Speyside Blossom while enjoying seasonal small plates and skyline views, a perfect mid-festival retreat. Cannonball Restaurant & Bar Enjoy modern Scottish dishes made with seasonal ingredients alongside stunning views of Edinburgh Castle. Le Petit Beefbar Edinburgh An upscale steakhouse serving Kobe and Scotch-aged T-bone steaks, with a luxe cocktail list featuring drinks like the Leaf Garden and Harmony. Contini George Street Italian classics meet Scottish produce in this grand Georgian banking hall, with homemade pasta, burrata, seafood, and Italian wines. Rabble Taphouse and Grill Hearty robata grilled dishes such as pork belly and tandoori sea bass, paired with cocktails focusing on light spritzes and G&Ts. Join the Daily Record WhatsApp community! Get the latest news sent straight to your messages by joining our WhatsApp community today. You'll receive daily updates on breaking news as well as the top headlines across Scotland. No one will be able to see who is signed up and no one can send messages except the Daily Record team. All you have to do is click here if you're on mobile, select 'Join Community' and you're in! If you're on a desktop, simply scan the QR code above with your phone and click 'Join Community'. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. To leave our community click on the name at the top of your screen and choose 'exit group'. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice. BABA Levantine small plates with bold Scottish produce from chef Tom Greer, including grilled lamb, charred cauliflower, and inventive mezze. The Scotsman Hotel Modern Scottish cuisine led by chefs Chris Niven and Paul Hart, focusing on local produce and an exceptional selection of craft gins, whiskies, and cocktails like the Grande Café Negroni. Bar Prince, The Balmoral Over 500 whiskies and elegant gin-based cocktails, including Edinburgh Gin's Cramond Island and Glengoyne's Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky. The Court, Caledonian Hotel Award-winning chef Mark Greenaway offers bold, seasonal Scottish dishes in a refined six-course tasting menu, paired with inventive cocktails such as the Wild Negroni or Edinburgh Rose.
Scottish Sun
6 hours ago
- Scottish Sun
Crucial motorway tunnel used by 150,000 Brits per day is hit by a WEEK of closures
It is due to planned "essential" maintenance work STEER CLEAR Crucial motorway tunnel used by 150,000 Brits per day is hit by a WEEK of closures – check your route Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) A CRUCIAL motorway tunnel that is used by more than 150,000 Brits each day is set be disrupted by closures this week. Tunnel closures come in the lead up to a complete closure of the QEII Bridge this weekend. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 3 The Dartford Crossing is the only way to cross the Thames east of London Credit: Alamy 3 It also links Essex and Kent via the QEII bridge Credit: Getty Drivers are being alerted to overnight closures at the Dartford Crossing due to essential maintenance work scheduled from Monday, August 11 to Monday, August 18. More than 150,000 vehicles per day are reported to rely on the Dartford Crossing. It has been considered a vital cross that enables vehicles to commute or carry freight between the south-east and the rest of the country. It is the only way to cross the Thames river by road east of London, and links the counties of Essex and Kent. This is via the QEII bridge for southbound traffic, and two 1.4km-long tunnels for travellers going northbound. The closures will only occur overnight across the week, where driver's may be hit by disruptions. Diversions via the National Highways' network and local routes will be clearly signposted during this time. The QEII bridge will be fully closed from Saturday, August 16 to Sunday, August 17, between 10pm to 5am. The diversion route will be through the an installed contraflow through the Dartford east tunnel from 9:30pm on Saturday night. The Dartford west tunnel will remain open overnight for travel in the northbound direction. M6 and M4 closed over serious crashes with drivers facing long delays However, height restrictions will apply to vehicles going in this direction between 4.8 to 5 metres high. Tunnel closures set for this week Monday, August 11/12 (10pm - 5.30am) A282 Northbound Dartford Crossing West Tunnel closure Tunnel closure for maintenance works Diversion via National Highways network Tuesday, August 12/13 (10pm - 5.30am) A282 Northbound Dartford Crossing West Tunnel closure Tunnel closure for maintenance works Diversion via National Highways network Wednesday, August 13/14 (10pm - 5.30am) A282 Northbound Dartford Crossing West Tunnel closure Tunnel closure for maintenance works Diversion via National Highways network Thursday, August 14/15 (10pm - 5.30am) A282 Northbound Dartford Crossing West Tunnel closure Tunnel closure for maintenance works Diversion via National Highways network Friday, August 15/16 (11pm - 6am) A282 Northbound Dartford Crossing West Tunnel closure Tunnel closure for maintenance works Diversion via National Highways network Saturday, August 16/17 (10pm - 5am) A282 QEII Bridge closure clockwise Southbound QEII Bridge closure for bridge works Diversion via east tunnel contraflow Sunday, August 17/18 (10pm - 5am) A282 Northbound Dartfood Crossing East Tunnel closure Tunnel closure for maintenance works Diversion via National Highways network Closure of the Dartford Crossing this week comes just months after it was also shut down for maintenance work in May. It involved the M20 motorway which was closed between Maidstone and Ashford overnight ahead of the spring bank holiday weekend for Operation Brock. The Dartford Crossing is also set to become more expensive next month. The cost of using it is expected to jump from £2.50 to £3.50 in September. This will mark the first price increase for the crossing since 2014. Transport Secretary, Lilian Greenwood, explained the toll increase was necessary in order to manage the almost 200,000 vehicles that use it everyday. Analysts have suggested that these increased charges could be used to fund the upcoming Lower Thames Crossing mega project. The project is set to ease congestion, and provide an alternative route for vehicles between Essex and Kent.
