A HISTORIC 17th century listed building in the centre of Inverkeithing could be turned into a short term holiday home.

Mr S Montague, of Kadima Developments in Edinburgh, has sought permission from Fife Council to change the use of Fordell's Lodging on Church Street.

The category A listed building, previously a dwelling house and church hall, was put up for sale earlier this year for offers over £75,000.

At the time, local councillor David Barratt had told the Press: "This building has not received the love and care it warrants in recent years and so I really hope any new owner has a love of history and architecture and can bring this building back into use."

Dunfermline Press: The coat of arms of King Charles II, in Fordell's Lodging in Inverkeithing.The coat of arms of King Charles II, in Fordell's Lodging in Inverkeithing. (Image: Shepherd Commercial)

Permission is sought to reinstate the vacant church hall for residential purposes.

Listed building consent for work including the removal and rebuilding the existing entrance and toilet block, internal alterations to form bedrooms and bathrooms, refurbishment of walls and door and replacement windows, has also been applied for.

Mr Montague's application said the property would be made available as a "dwelling house for short term holiday let".

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A prominent historic building in the town, Fordell Lodging stands three storeys in height and has a two-storey turret projecting from the main block.

The building dates from the 17th century and is said to have been built as a town house for Sir John Henderson of Fordell, whose main residence was Fordell Castle, who acquired the property in 1666.

Dunfermline Press: There are plans to change the use of the 17th century Fordell's Lodging in Inverkeithing. There are plans to change the use of the 17th century Fordell's Lodging in Inverkeithing. (Image: Shepherd Commercial)By a grant of Queen Mary, the family held the office of hereditary provost and sheriff of Inverkeithing, although there is no evidence that this right was ever exercised.

It also has a moulded plaster panel representing the coat of arms of King Charles II, which was removed from above the fireplace on the first floor and inserted for preservation in the inner face of the north wall.