CLARK Contracts will start work to build a new RNLI lifeboat station in Anstruther on July 21.
The project aims to provide a modern base for the volunteer crew and a permanent home for the Shannon-class lifeboat that arrived in Fife last year.
The current lifeboat station has been home to the RNLI in Anstruther since 1904 and, following six previous upgrades, is said be no longer fit for purpose. A decision was made by the RNLI and Fife Council to build a new station further along the shore, with planning permission granted in 2020.
The station will be built at the opposite side of the East Basin Car Park to replace the current station, which will be demolished. Building a new station while the old one is still operating will allow the lifesaving service to be maintained for the duration of the build without the need for temporary accommodation.
The first phase involves the construction of the new launch ramp and sea wall, which will require works to be carried out in the water.
RNLI operations lead, Stuart Gudgeon said, “We are pleased we have been able to reach agreement with Fife Council about the phasing of the work and are grateful to local people for their understanding. We are doing everything we can to minimise the impact of the construction work and will keep people informed about the progress of the project.
“The local community has been incredibly generous in supporting the appeal to help fund our new lifeboat station and we hope they will be proud of the building. It will be a significant new landmark in the town and will vastly improve the way our crew are able to operate, providing a permanent home for Anstruther’s Shannon class all-weather lifeboat.”
Michael Scanlan, director at Clark Contracts, added, “We are proud to have been selected as the main contractor for the construction of the new RNLI lifeboat station in Anstruther. This is a vital facility for the RNLI, Fife Council, and the local community, and we are committed to delivering it to the highest standards.”
