The Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) said the popularity of the seaside spot meant that improved lifesaving facilities were “essential”.

The plans have been approved by Fife Council and the RNLI said, “The need for a lifeguard service at Silver Sands Bay has been identified through the RNLI’s risk assessment as being extremely important to improve and strengthen the presence of the lifeguard patrol facility that currently operates in the area.

“The continued popularity of the beach means that a beach lifeguard unit is required in this location to meet the demands of public safety.” The RNLI operate the beach lifeguard service on behalf of the Fife Coast and Countryside Trust.

They said that up to three people would work at the lifeguard unit, which would only operate during the day and would therefore require no lighting. It would have a flagpole up to six metres in height and the charity said that views of the all-white unit “would not be significant enough to detract from the existing character of the area”.

A Fife Council report said, “The lifeguard facility is required to provide lifeguards a clear, unobstructed view of the beach to ensure the ability to observe the beach and provide a first aid point when required and to support the preventative work of the RNLI.”