🚢 Is a Fife to Edinburgh Ferry Finally Making a Comeback?

Good morning, Fifers! Grand plans for the Kingdom this week, with issues ranging from a new ferry service to turning Fife into an AI powerhouse.

Here’s what’s coming your way:

• 🚢 Fife Council Explores Cross-Forth Vessel Service

• 🤖 Fife's Bid for AI Growth Zone Backed by MPs

• 🏆 University of St Andrews Ranked Best in Scotland

Let’s jump in, there’s plenty to talk about!

— Duncan

WEATHER

Whilst it doesn’t look like we’ll be getting the sunshine we expected, it’s continuing to stay warm. Here's the forecast:

Friday: 9 🌡️ 2 | ⛅

Saturday: 9 🌡️ 7 | 🌧️

Sunday: 13 🌡️ 7 | ⛅

Monday: 14 🌡️ 6 | ⛅

TOP STORIES AROUND THE KINGDOM

🚢 Fife Council Explores Cross-Forth Vessel Service

Fife Council is revisiting the idea of a cross-Forth vessel to connect Kirkcaldy and Edinburgh. The potential service, which could be a hovercraft or ferry, was first trialed in 2007 with 32,000 passengers taking part in a successful journey across the Forth in just 18 minutes. While previous attempts for a permanent service faltered, Fife Council is now conducting a feasibility study to reassess the proposal.

The project has resurfaced as part of Fife's transport strategy for 2023-33, which also includes a new railway station and park and choose options. Councillor Ian Cameron confirmed the renewed interest, stating that workshops were held to review past findings. The plan could help alleviate traffic congestion and provide a faster alternative for commuters, with the Forth Road Bridge's past closures highlighting the need for such services.

🤖 Fife's Bid for AI Growth Zone Backed by MPs

Fife's four MPs have joined forces to support a bid to designate the region as an AI Growth Zone. The initiative aims to attract high-skilled jobs and investment, with backing from both the University of St Andrews and Fife College. The proposal highlights Fife's potential for AI innovation, citing its strong academic institutions, skilled workforce, and recent upgrades to energy infrastructure.

Fife's capacity for renewable energy and grid expansion is also a major asset, making it an ideal location for AI development. With 57GW of renewable electricity projects in the works, the region has all the right ingredients to foster cutting-edge technology. MPs have urged the UK Government to support the bid, marking a significant step in Fife's cross-party collaboration since the 2024 election.

LOCAL HEADLINES YOU NEED TO KNOW

• 🐾 St Ninian's assures the public that safety is a top priority after a dog reportedly died from poisoning at the site. A community Facebook post raised concerns about a dangerous substance, but the owners, National Pride Ltd, confirmed that no poisonous substances are used on the site.

• 💦 Fife Council is considering building a new £13.1m swimming pool in West Fife, with a preference for the Inverkeithing High School site. However, the final location is still under review. The aim is to create a state-of-the-art center that could become a hub for local swimming activities.

• 🐋 Fife Council workers removed a dead porpoise from Torryburn Beach after it was found on Tuesday. The animal, too heavy for four men to lift, was moved using a tractor and trailer. The removal was carried out by the grounds maintenance team.

• 🚗 Fife Council faces staffing concerns over pavement parking ban. With only 18 parking attendants, there's worry the ban, starting September 1, won’t be effectively enforced. Enforcement will begin before exemptions are finalized, with a "soft" approach initially.

• 📮 Post Office in talks to return to Dalgety Bay. Early discussions are underway to include a Post Office in a new Costcutter store on Moray Way North. Local councillor David Barratt supports the plan, and details will be shared once finalized.

• 🚤 RNLI begins work on a new lifeboat station in Anstruther for the Shannon class lifeboat. The East Basin car park will close during construction, with a temporary park-and-ride in place. The project will take 18 months to complete.

• 🔋 Fife Council has delayed its kerbside battery recycling trial, originally set for March 31, due to a review of storage boxes for the batteries. Residents are advised to continue recycling batteries at centres, supermarkets, or charities. A new start date will be announced later.

• 🚗 Benarty Bays car park at Lochore Meadows will remain closed until further notice due to ongoing improvements and the construction of a new nature reserve path. The project is expected to take around two weeks and aims to enhance safety for walkers and cyclists.

• 🚨 Fife Council and Police Scotland to address the issue of off-road bikes causing disruptions, particularly in areas like the Fife Coastal Path. Plans include coordinated patrols, bike seizures, and barriers to reduce the nuisance, especially during summer months.

• 🏞️ Eden Muir plans to resubmit proposals for a £35 million holiday park near Letham after the Scottish Government rejected their appeal for 75 lodges. Despite local objections about noise, environmental impact, and transport, the company remains optimistic, noting that the ruling highlighted positives to inform their next application.

• 🚗 Fife Council has spent over £16.8 million on pothole repairs in the last three years, the highest amount of any Scottish council, according to recent figures. This includes £32.4k in compensation for pothole damage claims. The cost of repairs has increased, with £6.3 million spent in 2023–24.

• 🌞 A second consultation for the West Springfield Solar Farm will be held on April 4 from 4-8pm at Springfield Church Hall. The project could power 12,500 homes and reduce 740,000 tons of CO2.

AROUND FIFE

Each week, we highlight interesting places, hidden gems, and local experiences to explore.

🎉 Letham Glen Marks 100 Years with Exciting Celebrations

Letham Glen in Leven is celebrating its centenary with a packed programme of events throughout the year, including a music festival, 5k run, and ice rink. Here’s a look at the major celebrations:

• April 20 – Easter Fun Day: Funfair, inflatables, petting zoo, Easter egg hunt, and more!

• May 14 – Afternoon Garden Party: Afternoon tea, brass band, and a heritage display for care home residents.

• June 14 – Rose Queen and King’s Ceremony: Crowning of kings and queens from Leven’s primary schools.

• July – Open Air Cinema Day: A magical movie experience under the stars.

• September 6 – Glenfest: A mini festival with live bands, stalls, and rides.

• September – 5k Run: Fitness and charity run (exact date TBD).

• December 12-14 – Winter Wonderland: Ice rink, festive lights, and Christmas attractions.

🏆 University of St Andrews Ranked Best in Scotland

The University of St Andrews has been named the Best University in Scotland for 2025, according to StudentCrowd, a leading student review platform. This recognition comes after the platform analyzed thousands of verified student reviews, showcasing the institution's outstanding student experience, academic support, campus life, and career opportunities.

St Andrews topped the list, ahead of other top Scottish universities, including Strathclyde, Glasgow, Edinburgh, and Aberdeen. The rankings are powered by direct feedback from students over the past two years, offering an authentic reflection of university life, unlike traditional rankings focused on research output or reputation.

@THEFIFEINSIDER

📍 Picture by PaulScotland | Location: Fife Coastal Path, Crail

📸 Share your photos of Fife with us! Tag @thefifeinsider and you could be featured in the next edition.

WHAT’S ON IN FIFE?

✨ Featured Event

🎶 Live Music & Concerts

📍 Malvina Guitar Duo - Crail: Experience an evening of beautiful music with the Malvina Guitar Duo at Crail Parish Church.
📅 Fri, 28th March | 🕖 7:00pm | 📍 Crail Parish Church, Crail | 🎟️ £12.50

📍 Dowally: Award Winning Live Scottish Folk! – Edinburgh's acoustic folk ensemble, winners of the Celtic Connections "Danny Kyle" Award, brings lively traditional Scottish tunes with beautiful vocals and foot-tapping reels and jigs.
📅 Fri, 28th March | 🕗 8:00pm | 📍 The Harbour Bar, Kirkcaldy | 🎟️ Free

📍 Polly Paulusma live from Cambo Kitchen – Experience an intimate evening with Polly Paulusma and Jon Thorne, celebrating the release of 'Wildfires' in a beautiful, acoustic setting.
📅 Sat, 29th March | 🕕 6:00pm | 📍 Cambo Country House and Estate, St Andrews | 🎟️ £15

📍 Mozart Requiem – Enjoy an unforgettable evening with Kirkcaldy Choral Union, featuring Mozart's powerful Requiem, Laudate Dominum, and Serenata Notturno.
📅 Sat, 29th March | 🕖 7:00pm | 📍 St Bryce Kirk, Kirkcaldy | 🎟️ £15

📍 Get It On – A glam rock extravaganza with hits from T. Rex, Sweet, Slade, Bowie, and more! Relive the golden age of glam with a sensational cast and live band.
📅 Sat, 29th March | 🕢 7:30pm | 📍 Alhambra Theatre, Dunfermline | 🎟️ £30

📍 Movicals: A Movie Musical Extravaganza – Experience the magic of iconic movie musicals from Les Miserables to Mamma Mia! A spectacular tribute to stage and screen!
📅 Sat, 29th March | 🕢 7:30pm | 📍 Adam Smith Theatre, Kirkcaldy | 🎟️ £26.50

📍 MASHED DJ Spliff and Scuba Steve DJ NIGHT! – Get ready for an epic night of rock, metal, ska, reggae, and more with DJ Spliff and Scuba Steve at The Harbour Bar!
📅 Sat, 29th March | 🕣 8:30pm | 📍 The Harbour Bar, Kirkcaldy | 🎟️ Free

🎭 Theatre & Stage

📍 King Lear – A one-man adaptation of Shakespeare’s tragedy, presented from the Fool’s perspective, blending humour and poignancy.
📅 Fri, 28th March | 🕡 6:30pm | 📍 Byre Theatre, St Andrews | 🎟️ £17

🎬 Entertainment

📍 An Evening with Celtic Legends – Join football stars Tom Boyd, Frank McAvennie, and Jackie McNamara as they share stories and anecdotes from their careers at Celtic FC.
📅 Fri, 28th March | 🕢 7:30pm | 📍 Alhambra Theatre, Dunfermline | 🎟️ £30

📍 Connor Burns: 1994 – Edinburgh's emerging comedy star brings his third solo hour, filled with sharp wit, self-deprecation, and a relaxed yet intelligent style.
📅 Fri, 28th March | 🕢 7:30pm | 📍 Adam Smith Theatre, Kirkcaldy | 🎟️ £17

📍 Chess Challenge – Join fellow chess enthusiasts for a unique experience at the Andrew Carnegie Birthplace Museum and test your skills in a strategic setting.
📅 Sat, 29th March | 🕙 10:00am | 📍 Andrew Carnegie Birthplace Museum, Dunfermline | 🎟️ Free

📍 The Spirits of the Palace: After Hours Tours – Discover the fascinating spirits of Culross Palace on an exclusive evening tour in the historic setting of the Palace.
📅 Sat, 29th March | 🕔 5:00pm | 📍 Culross Palace, Culross | 🎟️ £25

📍 Glenrothes F.C. presents An Evening with... – Join Celtic legends Jackie McNamara and Rab Douglas for an unforgettable evening, hosted by David Tanner at Warout Stadium!
📅 Sat, 29th March | 🕗 8:00pm | 📍 Glenrothes FC, Warout Stadium | 🎟️ £30

📍 Pretty Woman: Mother's Day Special – Celebrate Mother's Day with a screening of Pretty Woman at The King's Kirkcaldy, complete with special packages for a perfect day out.
📅 Sun, 30th March | 🕑 2:00pm | 📍 The King's, Kirkcaldy | 🎟️ £3

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family & Kids

📍 Logie Farming Lambing Experience 2025 – Join the Morris family for an authentic lambing tour at Logie Farm. Experience everything from holding a lamb to witnessing live births (nature permitting).
📅 Fri, 28th March | 🕐 1:30pm & 4:00pm | 📍 Logie Farm, Newburgh | 🎟️ £15

📍 Abbey Kids: A Creative Space for Children – Join us for a FREE arts & crafts group for families, offering creative and messy fun every Friday afternoon in Dunfermline Abbey Church Halls.
📅 Fri, 28th March | 🕓 4:00pm | 📍 Dunfermline Abbey Church Hall, Dunfermline | 🎟️ Free

📍 Fundraising Dook for Fife Boomerang – Join the Warrior Water Women for a charity dook at Cellardyke Tidal Pool to support Fife Boomerang, an adult mental health charity. Enjoy archery, axe throwing, sauna sessions, face painting, a raffle, and more!
📅 Sat, 29th March | 🕙 10:00am | 📍 Cellardyke Tidal Pool, Anstruther | 🎟️ £5

📍 Dinosaurs Live – Embark on a prehistoric journey with life-like dinosaurs, brought to you by London's Natural History Museum. Explore fossils, time scales, and more in this exciting, family-friendly show!
📅 Sun, 30th March | 🕧 12:30pm | 📍 Alhambra Theatre, Dunfermline | 🎟️ £17.50

🥗 Food & Drink

📍 Artisan Fridays Market – A lively weekly food market offering hot & cold food on Kirkcaldy High Street.
📅 Fri, 28th March | 🕘 9:00am | 📍 Kirkcaldy High Street, Kirkcaldy | 🎟️ Free

📍 Rosyth Community Market – Enjoy a fantastic variety of food, crafts, and artisan stalls at Fife's largest monthly market! Fun activities for the whole family, including free kids' crafts and face painting.
📅 Sun, 30th March | 🕘 10:30am | 📍 Parkgate Community Centre, Rosyth | 🎟️ Free

📍 Culross Community Market – Enjoy a fantastic day of local shopping, delicious food, and live music in the historic village of Culross.
📅 Sun, 30th March | 🕛 12:00pm | 📍 Culross Green, Culross | 🎟️ Free

📍 Mother's Day Afternoon Tea – Treat your mum to a delightful afternoon at Garvock House Hotel! Enjoy fresh sandwiches, homemade sausage rolls, freshly baked scones, and cakes in a beautiful setting.
📅 Sun, 30th March | 🕐 1:00pm | 📍 Garvock House Hotel, Dunfermline | 🎟️ £25

🎨 Art

📍 Jack Vettriano Exhibition 2025 – A stunning collection of Jack Vettriano prints, including rare and sold-out pieces, at Affordable Arts!
📅 Tue, 4th Mar - Tue, 28th October | 🕙 10:00am | 📍 Affordable Arts, Methil | 🎟️ Free

📍 Hag: Knowledge, Power & Alchemy through Craft – An inspiring exhibition celebrating the creativity, strength, and mastery of 13 Scottish women craft artists.
📅 Sat, 8th March – Sun, 8th June 2025 | 🕙 Various times | 📍 Carnegie Library & Galleries, Dunfermline | 🎟️ Free

📍 Life Drawing Anstruther – Join a friendly, untutored life-drawing group at Dreel Hall, open to artists of all levels.
📅 Fri, 28th March | 🕡 6:45pm | 📍 Dreel Halls, Anstruther | 🎟️ £7

📍 Mother’s Day Spring Bouquet Workshop – Create a beautiful spring bouquet with your mum while enjoying delicious canapés and refreshments at the prestigious Old Course Hotel.
📅 Sun, 30th March | 🕛 12:00pm | 📍 Old Course Hotel Golf Resort and Spa, St Andrews | 🎟️ £70

📍 Falkland Estate Monthly Makers and Producers Market – Browse a variety of unique, locally produced arts, crafts, and food at the beautiful Falkland Estate.
📅 Sun, 30th March | 🕛 12:00pm | 📍 The Stables, Falkland Estate | 🎟️ Free Entry

SPORTS

Fixtures

⚽ Hamilton vs Raith Rovers
📅 Sat, 29 March | 🕒 15:00 | 🏆 Championship

⚽ Ayr vs Dunfermline Athletic
📅 Sat, 29 March | 🕒 15:00 | 🏆 Championship

⚽ Annan Athletic vs Kelty Hearts
📅 Sat, 29 March | 🕒 15:00 | 🏆 League 1

⚽ East Fife vs Spartans
📅 Sat, 29 March | 🕒 15:00 | 🏆 League 2

🏉 Kirkcaldy vs Berwick
📅 Sat, 29 March | 🕒 14:30 | 🏆 National League Cup

🏒 Belfast Giants vs Fife Flyers
📅 Sat, 29 March | 🕒 19:00 | 🏆 Elite Ice Hockey League

🏒 Fife Flyers 2-7 Sheffield Steelers
📅 Sun, 30 March | 🕒 17:15 | 🏆 Elite Ice Hockey League

Results

⚽ Greenock Morton 3-3 Raith Rovers
📅 Tue, 25 March | 🕒 19:45 | 🏆 Championship

THANKS FOR READING

Hope you enjoyed this week's update! If you have anything you'd like to see covered next week, just let me know.

Cheers,

Duncan

Got an event or news you want to feature? Or perhaps you’d like to promote your business to readers in Fife? Get in touch with us at [email protected] - let’s make it happen!