A much-loved coastal landmark in St Andrews is set to be restored after councillors agreed funding to support the project.

Members of the North East Fife Area Committee have approved £10,000 from the St Andrews Common Good Fund to help bring the historic tidal pool at Castle Sands back into use.

The funding will support a wider community-led project by The Hamish Foundation to repair and improve the pool, making it safer, more accessible and more enjoyable for both residents and visitors.

Works planned include repairing the pool walls and steps, upgrading the sluice gate, installing new safety signage and handrails, and improving the surrounding area. Together, these improvements will create a welcoming outdoor space for swimming, relaxation and enjoying the coastline.

Once complete, the tidal pool will be free and open to everyone, offering a safe place for outdoor swimming while supporting wellbeing, encouraging people to spend time outdoors, and enhancing the area’s appeal for visitors.

Area Convener, Cllr Jonny Tepp, said:“Castle Sands tidal pool is an important part of St Andrews’ coastal heritage, and it’s great to see this project moving forward with strong community backing. This funding will help bring the pool back into use as a safe and accessible space for people of all ages to enjoy. It’s a fantastic example of partnership working that will benefit both local residents and visitors for years to come.”

The £10,000 contribution forms part of a wider funding package to support the overall project, helping ensure this valued community asset can be restored and enjoyed again.

Work is expected to progress once the remaining funding is secured, with the aim of returning the tidal pool to a high-quality, usable space for the community.