'Unviable' Fife pub to become houses three years after closure

The Cycle Tavern in Auchtermuchty will officially be transformed into two houses after Fife Council granted planning permission this week.

Mr H. Aitchison, of Quayside House, Methil Docks got the green light to convert the old Cycle Tavern into housing because the pub is “no longer considered viable.”

It was previously owned by Red Oak Taverns, but after “running at an operating loss for several years” the doors were closed in July 2021.

Red Oak tried to attract new tenants to take over the pub for more than two years, but it continued to sit empty with absolutely no interest.

“Given the long-term financial difficulties associated with the previous public house business, it is considered that the previous use is simply unviable as a going business concern and that other uses for the buildings should be explored,” a planning statement explained.

It would appear that Fife Council and the community agree. Mr Aitchison’s application to turn the building into two houses was approved by the local planning authority, and no public objections were submitted during the process.

The pub is made of two stone buildings and a variety of “ad-hoc buildings and extensions” to the rear of the original property.

Those ad-hoc buildings will be knocked down and replaced with two extensions that will provide the houses with “modern living accommodation.”

“The reinstatement of the property division between the properties of 73 and 75 Burnside creates the potential for two 3-bedroom properties to be formed,” the planning statement explained.