AN APPLICANT has decided to spend a penny or two more on fresh plans to turn old public toilets in Kincardine into a four-bedroom home.

Back in September, Fife Council dumped the proposals, put forward by Sebastian Pietrzak, to change the use and convert the building at 17-19 Excise Street.

Currently, the two-storey property is boarded-up, having been vacant for more than 15 years and is on the Buildings at Risk register.

However, it's also category C-listed, dates back to the 18th century, and sits in Kincardine's conservation area.

Officers shot down the initial plans to bring it back to life as too modern – specifically the UPVC windows, composite door and rooflights – but Mr Pietrzak has now returned with a new application.

It states: "The windows/doors which we propose to use are to positively enhance the historical aspects and not to adversely impact on the property/ locals.

"They are designed to improve and bring the property back to being occupied."

The building was two houses originally and the report said the ground floor was known to have been a shop in the 1960s.

It was latterly a public convenience but has been disused since around 2007.

Planning case officer Brian Forsyth's report to the west and central planning committee back in September said those plans were "inappropriate and harmful to the character and appearance of this building of architectural and historic interest".

At the time, convener David Barratt said: "I think it's a pity. I will move the recommendation that it's refused for the reason given but I would hope the applicant notes it and comes back with proposals that address the refusal."