Derelict hotel may be razed to make way for affordable housing

Developer wants to demolish Brannigans after it was ravaged in fire-raising incident and build 21 flats

A former hotel in the heart of Leven which was recently targeted by firebugs looks set to be torn down, The Courier can reveal.

Brannigans on Hawkslaw Road suffered extensive damage when a blaze ripped through the building in June, just days before it was due to transfer to new owners.

According to plans submitted this week, the derelict building will be demolished and the site cleared to make way for 21 new affordable apartments.

It follows calls to enhance the monitoring of buildings such Brannigans, as well as the former Denbeath Club and Silverburn House, which have also been set on fire in the past year.

News of the planning application, which has been submitted by the Fife-based Davidson Baxter Partnership, has been welcomed by councillors.

Labour’s Colin Davidson said: “I’m delighted that it’s gone to a local developer who is going to use local workers and local businesses, but I’m keen to meet with them to address some of the issues that have been raised with me about how the site is going to be developed.

“I also hope to meet with residents from Hawkslaw surrounding the site, and I think we could be doing something to close the lane in front of the property, but everyone is delighted that something is happening.”

SNP councillor Alistair Suttie, who had his wedding reception in the building, was similarly positive.

“I’ve no real objection to this if it’s going to bring the building or the land back into use, because there’s always a need for flats and accommodation in the area,” he said.

“We don’t want another building to be lying empty for a considerable amount of time.

“I’ve visited the building a few times obviously, so it’s sad to see it go from that aspect, but we’ve got lots of other venues in the area so we won’t miss it too much.”

A spokesman for the Davidson Baxter Partnership said: “The location is central and offers residents good access to the local amenities.”

I’m delighted that it’s gone to a local developer who is going to use local workers... COUNCILLOR COLIN DAVIDSON

Picture: Steven Brown. The former Brannigans Hotel in Leven has been targeted by vandals.