Fife Council have voted 13-9 to join a marine protection group.

Councillors backed a move to sign up to Kimo UK, which aims to tackle pollution in our seas and push for clean beaches and "thriving coastal communities”. 

However, a report to the cabinet committee recommended refusal.

Pam Ewen, head of planning services, wrote: “The council acknowledges the importance of the marine environment, but the benefits of Kimo’s work are beyond Fife Council’s current scope.”

SNP councillors broadly agreed but those from Labour, Lib-Dem and the Conservatives said the council should join for one year on a trial basis. 

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“Obviously we see more and more of the coastline being destroyed,” Cllr Fiona Corp said.

“And Kimo UK does actually help with the coastline. It’s not just about the water and water pollution which is obviously a big issue.” 

She continued: “We encourage people to come use our coast – we’ve got 116 miles of the Fife Coastal Path – and I think we should be looking after it a little bit better.” 

Cllr Brian Goodall said: “They do some fantastic work but the simple reality for me is that the issues we’re facing are more issues for ourselves and Scottish Water. They're not really issues relating to the further out marine environment. 

“If we’re really serious about making a difference to our own coastline, it’s about further negotiations with Scottish Water and finding ways to get that level of investment into the system that stops the sewage outflows."

Councillors voted 13 to 9 in favour of joining Kimo UK.