Fife Greens Condemn Government’s Rejection of Community Buyout Bid for Albert Hotel
The rejection comes as a major setback for residents who have long campaigned to restore the historic pub and hotel to its former role as a community hub.
Ryan Blackadder, Scottish Greens candidate for Inverkeithing and Dalgety Bay ward in the 2022 Fife Council Elections, condemned the decision, stating:
"This is a deeply frustrating and short-sighted decision that disregards the passion and determination of the people of North Queensferry. The Albert Hotel has stood at the heart of this village for nearly two centuries and the community’s vision for its revival was both viable and necessary.
“Instead, the government has chosen to leave the building to further decay rather than give residents the chance to take ownership and breathe new life into the iconic building."
The rejection of the buyout follows years of struggle by the community to protect The Albert from being converted into flats. The planning applications from Festival Inns were successfully blocked by Fife Council, with strong backing from the local community and Fife Greens. However, with no progress towards restoration, the village now faces the continued dereliction of an iconic building in one of Scotland’s most scenic locations.
Blackadder continued."The idea that The Albert cannot succeed under community ownership is nonsense. There are countless examples across Scotland—with residents correctly pointing to the revitalised fortunes of the nearby Red Lion in Culross.
“To deny North Queensferry that same opportunity is an insult to the efforts of those who have fought to keep this vital space alive."
The North Queensferry Community Trust has indicated that there may be strong grounds for appeal due to errors in procedure and reasoning in the decision. The Fife Greens have pledged their continued support to the community in challenging the rejection and exploring alternative routes to securing The Albert’s future.
Mr Blackadder added: "This fight isn’t over.The Albert belongs to the people of North Queensferry, not to developers looking to cash in. We stand with the community in pushing for a fair and reasonable chance to take ownership of this landmark and make it a space that serves local residents and visitors alike."
Fife Greens are hopeful the community will pursue an appeal to the rejection and are successful in their efforts to reclaim The Albert Hotel for the good of the village.