Aberdour’s Silver Sands is to benefit from a major transformation thanks to £750,000 from The Scottish Government’s Rural Tourism Infrastructure Fund, which VisitScotland manage.

This funding forms the cornerstone of a wider £1.3 million improvement package aimed at tackling long-standing infrastructure challenges caused by the beach’s growing popularity. During peak summer days, there are thousands of visitors to Silver Sands, placing significant pressure on local amenities. 

Caroline Warburton, VisitScotland Destination Development Director, said: “The Rural Tourism Infrastructure Fund (RTIF) can make a real difference at popular locations, such as Silver Sands in Aberdour.

“Making the beach more accessible to all, and the proposed upgrades to the toilet facilities and outdoor furniture will not only make this a much more mobility-friendly destination but also a more attractive and welcoming one.

“The development of new EV charge points and secure cycle racks will encourage more people to consider using sustainable transport; which combined with improvements to the parking infrastructure will not only help alleviate issues for visitors but also local people who use the beach.

“These developments will continue to improve the experience for visitors and help alleviate pressure on the infrastructure, to ensure this scenic area remains sustainable for years to come.”

The VisitScotland contribution will support a range of upgrades designed to improve accessibility, sustainability and the overall visitor experience. Planned improvements include: 

• parking infrastructure, 
• EV charging points and secure cycle racks, 
• accessible beach access,
• new changing places toilet, upgraded toilet facilities and outdoor furniture.

The £750,000 from VisitScotland is complemented by £400,000 from the Scottish Government’s Place Based Investment Programme and an additional £150,000 already secured. 

Cllr Altany Craik, Fife Council’s Spokesperson for Finance, Economy & Strategic Planning, said: “Silver Sands is a jewel in Fife’s coastal crown, and this investment reflects our commitment to enhancing the visitor experience while protecting the area’s natural beauty.

“By improving infrastructure and accessibility, we’re supporting sustainable tourism and ensuring that Silver Sands continues to thrive as a welcoming destination for both locals and visitors.” 

Newlay Civil Eng Ltd has been appointed to carry out the works, which will begin this autumn, outside the peak visitor season and are expected to be completed in summer 2026. 

Cllr David Barratt, Convener of the South and West Fife Area Committee, added: “After years of pushing for significant investment at Silver Sands, I’m delighted to see these plans moving forward. The improvements will ensure it remains a safe, accessible and welcoming destination for everyone. 

“We’re committed to working closely with the community and stakeholders to deliver a project that meets local needs and supports sustainable tourism.” 

For updates, visit our.fife.scot or follow facebook.com/OurSWFife.