Angry residents in St Andrews have accused a developer of putting “profit before people” as plans emerged for student accommodation and a hotel in the heart of the historic town.
Robertson Property Limited is proposing a 90-bed hotel, 89 car parking spaces and student accommodation of 104 beds spread over two blocks, along with secure cycle parking in Abbey Walk.
Neighbours say they have been left “horrified” by the blueprint and have now formed a residents’ group to oppose it every step of the way.
The site already houses a range of accommodation, comprising assisted living and retirement homes, two and three bedroom apartments, town houses and affordable housing. Dr Sandra Stewart, speaking on behalf of the newly-formed group, said the feeling among locals was that the developers had been “deceitful and somewhat disingenuous” with people who have purchased property from them.
“Many of the residents have lived near student accommodation and will vouch that this is an unpleasant experience,” she said.
“With the best will in the world, there is little chance of harmony between an elderly population seeking a relaxed and peaceful atmosphere and students who are at an age where they want to express themselves and enjoy freedom from the restriction of living with the older generation.
“The residents are not against developing the site per se but what is being proposed is not in character with the existing development.
“To propose student accommodation front and centre of a retirement complex is completely unsympathetic to the needs of the residents.”
Dr Stewart added: “The residents are prepared to fight for the right development of the site on which they have chosen to live.
“We believe this is a classic example of a large corporation putting profit before people.”
The group has also raised question marks about increased levels of traffic around the development, as well as a dearth of open space and the lack of a safe play area on site.
“The developer seems driven to create a cramped development to maximise profit irrespective of the impact on the residents and any resultant discomfort that may be suffered,” Dr Stewart continued.
“Many of the residents have chosen a home in a quiet location close to local amenities and are concerned that this will be far from what they will find themselves living in.”
The concerns were raised follow a public consultation event highlighting the plans.
Ross McNulty, development director at Robertson Property, said the firm was keen to hear the community’s opinions and insisted there was much to recommend the proposal.
He added: “This mix of uses is proposed to complete the last key stage of development at St Leonards in line with the Strategic Development Framework that was approved by Fife Council in 2011.
“We will also reintroduce an attractive public realm with a sense of place.
“Key mature trees will be retained as part of two linked public gardens which will be landscaped to encourage use by both local residents and hotel guests.
“Courtyard parking will be provided at the north of the site, leaving the buildings to benefit from direct access to the open spaces.”
