RAF Leuchars: chamber of commerce chief sees opportunity amid upheaval

Creating army barracks at Leuchars could boost the Fife economy despite the loss of high-profile events such as the air show.

Alan Russell, chief executive of Fife Chamber of Commerce, said turning RAF Leuchars into an army base should be seen as an opportunity rather than calamity. He said even the loss of the air show is unlikely to have too much of a detrimental effect on Fife. It is understood this year’s event will go ahead as planned.

“I think there was a review done of the air show and it didn’t have any significant impact on the area. People tended to come through for the day and go back home rather than stay for a weekend,” said Mr Russell.

He said the increased number of army personnel expected to be based at Leuchars could benefit the economy, as could the need to refit the base and improvement infrastructure in north-east Fife.

“The RAF base is traditionally a major business and huge employer, so it is disappointing to lose it,” he said. “But if it is going to become an army base with more personnel it will require significant investment in housing and local services like schools that might be an opportunity for a positive impact on the area.”