Craigtoun Country Park, a popular destination near St Andrews, is poised to see a significant upgrade to its beloved Dutch Village situated on the boating lake. The structure is set to undergo essential repairs, including new rendering and roof tiles, thanks to newly secured funding.

Fife Council had previously allocated £250,000 in last year's budget for the much-needed renovation of the Dutch Village. In a further boost to the project, the North East Fife Area Committee has now approved an additional £25,000 from the Community Recovery Funding. This supplementary funding will be allocated to the project's contingency fund, aiming to safeguard the successful delivery of the initial phase of the restoration works.

The Dutch Village, a prominent feature of the lake at Craigtoun Country Park, has been completely inaccessible to the public for approximately 25 years due to its deteriorating condition and concerns regarding its structural integrity. The commencement of works next week marks a crucial step forward in the effort to revitalise this cherished landmark.

Cllr Jonny Tepp, Convenor of the North East Fife Area Committee, commented: “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.”

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Alan Paul, Head of Property Services at Fife Council, 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."

Mr Paul further stated: "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."

The initial phase of the renovation will encompass:

• Removal of damaged and blown render from the island's exterior, to be replaced with waterproof render at water level and lime render above.

• Brick repairs, replacements, and repointing as necessary behind the existing render.

• Installation of new pan tile roofs to the island walls to protect the new render.

• Repairs and replacement of tiles on the entrance and old café buildings.

• Installation of new windows where existing ones have been damaged, vandalised, or removed.

• Repairs to eaves overhangs to extend the lifespan of the structure.

The Phase 1 works are scheduled for completion by the end of the year. However, the Dutch Village will remain closed to the public following this stage, as further funding will be required to undertake internal repairs and ensure the structure is accessible.

Future plans include the creation of a second access route to the Dutch Village to make it accessible to all visitors. The total estimated cost for Phase 1 of the project is around £660,000. This project aligns with Fife Council’s Plan4Fife and supports key Local Community Planning themes.