FRESH plans for a premises in Abbeyview that were previously used as a controversial shisha bar have been turned down.

Enforcement action was started last year by Fife Council due to the unauthorised change of use of a storage building to a hookah lounge - and the creation of an enclosed patio - at a former garage behind flats and shops on Duncan Crescent.

It never had permission to open, Fife Council twice rejected proposals and the Scottish Government also knocked back an appeal, but residents said the Buzz Shisha Lounge had been operating and repeatedly raised concerns. 

Alternative plans were then lodged requesting permission that the storage premises be used as an internal/external seating area for customers of the neighbouring House of Desserts shop.

However members of Fife Council's west and central planning committee agreed with officers that the application should be refused.

READ MORE: Owner proposes a sweet deal for unauthorised shisha bar in Abbeyview

Owner Muhammad Arslan said that, if permitted, the premises would open every day from 11am until 11pm with the outdoor seating area closing at 8pm.

A statement on his behalf said: "The maximum expected occupancy would be 15 customers.

"Moreover, the supporting statement advises that currently many customers that visit the shop buy their products and then sit on the steps outside to consume them.

"This is a large part of the reason for the applicant’s desire to have a dedicated seating area to provide a sheltered space during unpleasant weather.

"The applicant then concludes that the proposal would reduce noise levels through providing an indoor area for customers."

Concerns were raised in two letters of objection while a report from the council’s public protection team said the development would likely have a negative impact on the nearby properties due to noise levels.

READ MORE: Plan holds up Buzz Shisha Lounge enforcement in Abbeyview

Councillor Lesley Backhouse had initially asked the planners to re-consider their recommendation.

"I had a quick look on Google Maps to get an idea of what we are talking about," she said. "It is a shopping centre.

"If you are trying to improve our town centres making sure we are making places that are 15 minutes walking spaces, it looks like it is a very well used area and this could possibly enhance the area.

"The fact we have got significant positive letters of support with regard to this, the fact they are sending letters of support, and two of objection, I would be wishing to ask to reconsider."

Committee convener, councillor David Barratt, disagreed.

"My view is yes it is a shopping area but yes it doesn't have a seating area," he said. "The service yard is wholly inappropriate and the reason for refusal here and the reason for the refusal of the many alliterations of this stand."

Councillors agreed to refuse the plans and continue with ongoing enforcement action.