WORK is set to begin on the first phase of renovation works at Craigtoun Country Park’s Dutch Village near St Andrews.
The Dutch Village, situated on the lake, has been closed to the public for around 25 years due to its deteriorating condition and concerns over structural safety.Â
Fife Council revealed that restoration work will include new rendering and roof tiles. The local authority agreed in last year’s budget to set aside £250,000 for repairs to the Dutch Village.
The North East Fife Area Committee has approved an additional £25,000 of community recovery funding to support the project, which will go towards the scheme’s contingency fund, helping to safeguard delivery of the first phase of works.
The works include:
- Removal of damaged and blown render from the island exterior, replaced with waterproof render at water level and lime render above
- Brick repairs, replacements and repointing where required behind the existing render
- New pan tile roofs to the island walls to protect the render
- Repairs and replacement tiles to the entrance and old café buildings
- New windows where existing ones have been damaged, vandalised or removed
- Eaves overhang repairs to prolong the longevity of the structure
Phase 1 works are due to complete by the end of the year. Further funding will be required to carry out internal repairs and make the structure accessible.
Plans for a future phase include the creation of a second access route to the Dutch Village to ensure it is accessible to all visitors. It is estimated that the total cost for Phase 1 will be around £660,000.
Councillor Jonny Tepp, convenor of the North East Fife Area Committee, said, “Craigtoun Park holds a special place in the hearts of so many people across north east Fife and beyond. The Dutch Village is one of its most iconic features, and I’m delighted we’re able to contribute to the work that will help preserve and protect it for future generations. This funding is not just about repairing a structure – it’s about investing in our shared local heritage and helping the park thrive.”
Alan Paul, head of property services, added, “The Dutch Village has always been a great attraction within Craigtoun Park. So many Fifers and those from further afield will have fond memories of boating in the pond around the Dutch Village. Unfortunately, it has been past its best for some time now, so we’re all delighted that it will soon be looking more like the beautiful setting it once was.
“Contractors are due to start work on the site soon. The Phase 1 works include urgently needed building work that will protect this unique collection of listed buildings and ensure their longevity for the next generations of families in Fife.”
