A PROBLEM with the water supply is delaying the opening of the new Fire Station Creative arts facility.

A report to Fife Council revealed that Barr Construction had accidentally cut off the mains feed to the fire station.

When completed, the 1930s art deco building will be transformed into a new centre which will boast a gallery, classroom, 20 studios and a café/restaurant.

Exhibitions manager and Dunfermline artist Ian Moir told the Press, “We have had the keys for around five weeks and we have started doing a bit of painting and redecorating but the lack of water is holding us back.

“The water supply hasn’t been on since getting here so we have been very limited in what we could do with the place without having toilets or any running water.

“The problem is that we are not able to get contractors in to do the work until we have signed the lease but we can’t sign the lease until there is a water supply! The Fire Station Creative won’t be open to the public until February. “The water problem is holding us back but we have managed to get many of the studios booked up which is great. I think one of the biggest worries among people was filling the studios with local artists but we have had a huge interest in them!” A spokesman for Barr Construction said, “We are aware of the issue at the Fire Station arts initiative and have been liaising with Fife Council to ensure it is fully aware of the situation.

"We have identified the cause of the problem and will be implementing a solution to restore the water as soon as possible.” To find out more about the Fire Station Creative visit their website: www.firestationcreative.com.