Plans for the historic Dunfermline site 'in good hands'

Dunfermline’s iconic ‘pink hoose’ was closed in 2015 due to financial difficulties but a team of local organisations are fundraising to bring the heritage centre back to life.

The landmark has been maintained by owners Carnegie Dunfermline Trust who, together with Fife Council, Fife Environment Trust and the Common Good Fund, have pledged £371,000.

Plans have now been put forward and Sarah Young, trustee, said: “Abbot House is in good hands.

A team from the Dunfermline Heritage Partnership have described a plan to create a cultural hub – promoting Dunfermline as a destination, with all its architectural, social and cultural assets and supporting the growth of traditional skills – be it stonemasonry, woodwork, brewing, baking or textile weaving.

“There are plans to re-open the much-loved café and there are exciting ambitions on the catering front. Fundraising for the renovation is underway with funds already pledged from the trust, the council, Fife Environment Trust and the Common Good Fund.

“In the meantime, Carnegie Dunfermline Trust are looking after the building and a dedicated team of volunteers are working hard in the gardens. As soon as all the funds are in place, work will commence and Abbot House will once again be an active part of the community.”

Around 70% of the fundraising target has been met and applications are being assessed for the remaining funding.

The historic building on Maygate was forced to shut in August 2015 as Abbot House Heritage Centre Trust could not make it financially viable, despite West Fifers raising £10,000.