A HISTORIC Scottish harbour is to “undergo temporary repairs” after it was previously forced to close due to “significant” storm damage.
We previously told how St Andrews Harbour, which sits east of the ruined cathedral in the seaside town, was damaged as a result of Storm Babet.
In a new statement, a spokesperson for St Andrews Harbour Trust said: “The storm-damaged seawall of St Andrews Harbour will undergo temporary repairs next week.
“Fife Council will install temporary walls using rock armour. The repairs will help minimise future damage to the cliff face and car park by essentially putting a barrier break into the sea, near the cliffs, to lessen the force of water striking it.
“In preparation for these works, the council has announced it will close the entire length of Shorehead for two weeks from Monday, December 11 2023.
“We are extremely grateful that Fife Council has agreed to fund these works and thank the residents and harbour users for their ongoing patience while these essential repairs are carried out to our historic and important harbour.
“In the meantime the pier, which also suffered significant damage during Storm Babet and in the days that followed, remains closed while we continue to fundraise and explore additional funding streams for the long-term repairs and future-proofing of the slipway, pier and cliff.”
Meanwhile, Fife Council’s spokesperson for roads, councillor Altany Craik said he was delighted to confirm funding was being provided for the repairs.
“Storm Babet has left a legacy of damage along various sections of Fife’s coastline and we are working with communities to make the necessary repairs,” the councillor said.
“This coastal protection work to the historic harbour wall at St Andrews Harbour will involve some disruption for residents at Shorehead as the road will have to be closed temporarily.
“We apologise for any inconvenience, thank everyone for their patience and hope that people will bear with us while this important work is done.”
