STATION House in Burntisland is open for business again, following a £1.3m restoration and conversion by Fife Historic Buildings Trust.
Begins a spokesperson: “Though you won’t be able to buy a train ticket in the building, you could transport your business there.
“This historic building has been transformed into a new business centre, which is to be owned and managed by GIA Business Properties Ltd, a community benefit company.
“Empty and semi-derelict for almost two decades, this iconic listed building has been painstakingly restored and brought into the 21st century thanks to grants and support from the Heritage Lottery Fund, Historic Scotland, Burntisland Development Trust, Fife Council, the European Regional Development Fund,Fife Environment Trust and the Architectural Heritage Fund.
“This, however, is only the start as plans are now well advanced for a £900k second phase, which will secure the restoration and conversion of the original platform buildings to create four more business units for rent, together with new parking and the creation of an attractive landscape setting.
“There will also be improvements for rail passengers using the station, as the provision of a new ramp is planned. This will replace the old one, which does not meet current standards. Thanks to great support from Network Rail, First ScotRail and a generous £135k grant from Transport Scotland this improvement will not only provide safe access for wheelchair users but also new stairs and a much improved environment around the station.”
Gordon Brown MP, was given a tour of the building. He said: “The restoration of this historic building demonstrates how Fife’s rich built heritage can play a role in assisting the development of its economy.
“With the support of so many organisations, Fife Historic Buildings Trust has not only restored Station House to its former glory, but has created valuable business space and community facilities.
“The further proposals involving the construction of a much improved ramp access to the station and the restoration of the derelict platform buildings to provide further business space, will complete the regeneration of this historic part of the Burntisland and as the local MP I am delighted to see this improvement take place in the town.
“Projects such as this have helped transform parts of West Wemyss Kirkcaldy, Kinghorn and Dysart and I congratulate the Trust and all its partners and look forward to continuing to work with the Trust in the future.”
Trust chair, John McCombie, expressed enormous satisfaction over how the project has evolved: “Fife Historic Buildings Trust is delighted to have been responsible for this exciting project.
“The building is of huge historic importance and once again it can contribute to the economy of Burntisland. We are so grateful for the support of our funders and if the new ramp and restoration of the old platform buildings goes ahead, the whole area will be transformed.”
GIA’s main purpose is to provide good quality affordable business premises on flexible lease terms for new and small businesses.
Director, Ray Brooks, said: “Station House is in an ideal position to allow small local businesses to flourish. It will not only improve the viability of the local business community,but also brings an historic building back to its former glory. Any one interested in the units should contact me as interest is strong!”
The building has a fascinating history and was not only the railway station prior the opening of the Forth Railway Bridge, but also the terminal for what is thought to be the very first roll-on, roll-off ferry service in the world.
The building, together with the now demolished Forth Hotel, later served as one of the three main railway centres in Scotland and was a major employer in Burntisland.
For further information on the business units, please contact Ray Brooks on 01592 630195.
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Contact: Karen Christie
Email: karenA.christie@fife.gov.uk
Website: http://www.fifedirect.org.uk
