Rosyth Waterfront Commitment

Plans to transform Rosyth's disused waterfront have taken a step forward.

The £500million Rosyth Waterfront development aims to create 3,500 jobs through the 'Rosyth Gateway' commercial zone which includes a supermarket, leisure centre, restaurants and others, a business and employment park, housing, and waterfront gardens.

Scarborough Muir Group (SMG) bought the site in 2004, after it was previously used by the Ministry of Defence.

Fife Councillors say they're committed to implementing the scheme following a public consultation.

Spokesperson for Economy & Planning, Council Lesley Laird, has confirmed the council’s commitment to developing the area at Rosyth for the future .

She said: “We are acutely aware of the need to address concerns about the land at Rosyth waterfront being under-utilised or vacant. We’ve been through a very tough recession since 2008 – but things are changing and this review presents the opportunity to take stock and move this issue forward.

“The decision approved by the Executive Committee to undertake a master plan for Rosyth waterfront was very significant and signalled our intention to ensure that there was a clear way forward. I am pleased to say that this is now progressing.”

Cllr Laird added: “I’m very aware of how long this area has lain undeveloped and how strongly local people want to see something happen. With multiple owners of the waterfront I felt it was absolutely key that we proactively engaged with the waterfront landowners and businesses as well as Scottish Enterprise. 

“We’ve had some great success with employability through partnership working so I was confident that if we took that approach here we could, for the first time, get a strategic review of the waterfront. Not just current operations but also a look ahead to identifying a realistic development potential of this area. I am encouraged with the progress made so far – but there is still considerable work to be done to bring forward a cohesive approach.

'Tremendous asset'

“Everyone acknowledges the need to retain the port, energy and employment related activity as primary and preferred uses given the critical role that Rosyth waterfront plays in employing Fifers and beyond. Rosyth waterfront also has environmental designations and forth estuary protection that already exists and these still demand promotion and protection. 

“Fife Council wants to ensure that Fife is open for business and, with the pending decision on World Heritage status for the Forth Rail Bridge, it is important to understand all the factors that are now in play. A lot has changed, and is continuing to change, and we need to recognise and adapt to that. 

“We’ve got a tremendous asset in Rosyth and it’s recognised that any proposals must be in the context of a proper economic landscape which protects and promotes locations like the waterfront. Equally we must ensure that Fife is truly open for business and builds on our aspiration of making Fife the best place to do business.”