The expansion of a caravan park near Strathkinness has been approved following a successful appeal, despite earlier concerns raised by local residents and Fife councillors.
In 2023, Fife Council refused an application by St Andrews Holiday Estate to add 33 static caravans to its Knockhill of Nydie site. Councillors argued that the proposal would over-develop the land, cause noise and disturbance, and negatively affect nearby residents.
The estate’s owners, Devonshaw Ltd, acquired the former Nydie Campsite in 2021 and have since transitioned the property from a touring and camping site into a static holiday caravan park.
While the company originally sought permission for 68 pitches, community concerns led to a scaled-back plan of 33. The land in question had previously been used for touring caravans and tents.
Earlier this year, Scottish Government Reporter Gordon Reid reviewed the company’s appeal and overturned the council’s refusal. In his decision, Reid wrote that the proposed expansion did not constitute an extension of the site but a change of use within its existing boundary.
“As it would bring tourists into the area, the proposal would make a modest contribution to the rural economy,” he told Fife Today. He also stated that the caravans would occupy 11% of the site, be screened by hedges and existing units, and would not result in the loss of additional countryside.
The decision drew criticism from local residents, 57 of whom had objected to the original application. Concerns focused on increased traffic, environmental impact, and year-round site operations.
One resident said: “The Scottish reporter has got it wrong – really wrong. The road can’t take the type of business and traffic that will result from this. I cannot see how this decision was reached.”
Resident Roger McStravick also voiced opposition, describing the approval as an “unfortunate decision that flies in the face of logic.”
He added: “Despite the objections and environmental concerns of the Fife councillors, Strathkinness Community Council and 57 local objectors, the Reporter decided to dismiss every single one of those objections.”
“Living beside the site has been problematic. What was once a campsite for six months of the year is now a 12-month operation, with lights on all night, and issues with odious smells, litter and noise.”
”There has been no attempt to blend in with the landscape, and now permission has been given for a £5 million development in the heart of the countryside, with little room for appeal.”
For operators in the holiday park and caravan industry, the case highlights the role of planning appeals in shaping development opportunities.
While community opposition remains a factor, the decision shows that projects framed as contributing to rural tourism and using existing boundaries may find support through the appeal process.
Park operators planning expansions can take note of how economic benefits and land-use considerations were weighed against local objections in this case.