Plans to demolish Crail building 'at risk of collapse' approved by Fife Council

Local resident Johnny Harris has received permission from Fife Council to partly demolish the Old Smiddy blacksmith sheds on his property after a structural report revealed public safety concerns.

The demolition was brought forward to make way for redevelopment, but in the process it was revealed that the Old Smiddy is currently at risk of collapse after strong winds in January detached the wall of the building from the roof structure.

“From what could be seen externally, the gable wall has moved approximately 100mm from the apex of the adjacent roof and leans towards the main road,” a qualified structural report stated.

“The wall panel is at risk of collapse given it has lost all lateral support from the roof and has developed a significant lean.”

The building sits within the Crail Conservation Area surrounded by B and C-listed buildings and homes. (Image from Fife Council planning papers) LDRS

The building sits within the Crail Conservation Area surrounded by B and C-listed buildings and homes, but it is not itself a listed building.

The council has approved the conservation area demolition because, as it currently is, the Old Smiddy is considered to be “of limited architectural merit” and is a “risk of public safety concern.”

Aside from public safety concerns, Mr Harris wanted to demolish the old, derelict sheds to make way for a modern family home overlooking the harbour.

Those plans are subject to another planning application, but the proposals have passed a crucial hurdle now that the council has approved the demolition of the Old Smiddy – clearing the way for future redevelopment.