THE owners of Aberdour’s Doune House are following the example of the Woodside Hotel by seeking to change the building use to secure its future.

A planning application to Fife Council from Xafinity Pension Trustees Ltd outlines proposals for internal alterations, refurbishment of windows and installation of solar panels to form a "creative studio" or office space.

The house on High Street is currently part of the category B-listed Woodside Hotel, but it was originally a separate property that was redeveloped as a recreational hall by the Earl of Morton in 1913 and gifted to the village.

It was later acquired by the hotel and converted for domestic use, now it could become a commercial space.  

“Doune House is currently disused and in poor condition requiring significant maintenance both internally and externally,” a planning statement explained. 

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“The current roof, rainwater goods and windows to rear are in a state of disrepair and require significant investment to protect and retain this building as a key property within the conservation area of Aberdour and the built heritage of the village – albeit with a different use to the consented dwelling house or disused part of the hotel as it currently stands.” 

In late November, it was reported that the Woodside Hotel building had secured planning permission to be turned into sets of flats and housing. 

The owners said it was no longer possible to make a viable living from its operation as a hotel.

Now, Doune House could undergo a similar transformation. 

The plan now is to remove the first floor level bedrooms and reinstate the 3.5 metre ceilings to re-establish the open floor plan that once served as the recreational hall. 

Externally, the only changes would be the removal and replacement of signs and ground floor windows. 

“The conversion of Doune House promises to breathe new life into this historic building and the local commercial environment,” the statement added.

“The proposals create an opportunity to stimulate economic activity and lead to an increase in foot traffic for local business, thereby contributing to the overall prosperity of the community.” 

“Rather than allowing valuable real estate to languish unused, this proposal aims to maximise the potential of existing infrastructure, minimising the need for new construction and preserving the character of the community.”