Fife Greens praise decision to protect Albert Hotel
Fife Greens are delighted with Fife Council’s decision to reject applications to turn the Albert Hotel North Queensferry in to apartments. The decision of the planning committee to reject Festival Inns resubmitted application is great news for the village and we hope to see plans for community ownership progress.
West Fife Greens Co-Convenor Ryan Blackadder commented “This is tremendous news for a community that repeatedly voiced its disapproval of plans to rip this iconic feature of the main street out in the name of a quick profit. Despite having to submit objections multiple times the village has continued to show they desire a place of value where they can meet, eat, drink and connect. A working hotel, pub and restaurant only adds to North Queensferry’s value both to locals and to visitors. In the shadow of such an iconic and beautiful structure as the Forth Bridge, it would have been senseless to replace a viable community asset with flats.
When we are out campaigning in North Queensferry, the future of the hotel comes up repeatedly. Whilst we are thrilled the application has been rejected, we hope to see progress made towards a community buyout and we remain committed to assisting the process in any way we can. Hopefully the property owner Festival Inns can agree a realistic price for the property and the trust and community council can finally start restoring this important venue.”
Fife Greens are keen to support the community and welcome correspondence on westfife@fife.scottishgreens.org.uk