Big worries over plan to fence off town port

BURNTISLAND: Concerns over public’s right to roam and leisure clubs being able to use facilities

Fears are growing Burntisland Port is to be fenced off – denying the public access it has enjoyed for hundreds of years.

It is understood Forth Ports Group, which manages the port, is to push ahead with plans to ring the entire site with steel fencing amid continuing fears over health and safety.

In November 2018 a 65-year-old man died at the port after being pulled from the harbour water. The findings of a Health and Safety Executive inquiry are expected to be published later this year.

Forth Ports regularly has the power to close the harbour to allow the offloading of goods shipments and can make certain decisions without seeking planning permission.

However, locals are concerned the fencing would be a breach of a royal charter dating back to the 16th Century which allows the public access to parts of the port area.

Once installed, the security fence would restrict commercial as well as pedestrian access as well as to a stretch of breakwater regularly used by anglers.

The move would also stop bus services using the site as a turning circle.

The controversial plans have been discussed by Burntisland Community Council and many residents are opposed to the move.

SNP Councillor Leslie Backhouse, whose ward includes Burntisland, said: “The port area is very well used by the public, from walkers to fishermen and also by clubs including Burntisland Sailing Club, who has invested in new pontoons and who rely on free access.

“It’s also questionable as to whether erecting a fence goes against the public’s rights to roam and is something I’m seeking clarity on.

“We have a high street that is bucking the trend and thriving and we’d like to see Burntisland Port explore similar economic opportunities.

“That certainly can’t happen if it is circled by fencing.”

Derek Knox, senior port manager said: “The safety of the public and our staff is our top priority and we regularly undertake assessments to ensure we undertake our port operations safely.

“Over the course of the past year, we have consulted with our tenants, staff and community groups – including Burntisland Community Council, Burntisland Sailing Club and Burntisland Heritage Trust – and shared our plans to restrict access to a number of areas in the port.

“In response to public demand we have ensured local people can continue to walk through the port estate.

“It is normal practice for a busy port to prevent public access in working areas on safety grounds and we have taken the decision to erect a fence at the port that will protect the public.

“We will continue to work with the local community and those groups that need access to the port.”

“It is normal practice for a busy port to prevent public access in working areas on safety grounds and we have taken the decision to erect a fence at the port that will protect the public. DEREK KNOX BURNTISLAND PORT SENIOR MANAGER

Burntisland Port, which could be fenced off, raising concerns about public access.