THERE will be some relief for Historic Environment Scotland staff in Dunfermline as a leaky roof above the toilets they use is to be replaced.

Fife Council have granted approval for works at the Abbey on what was thought to have been an old mortuary, which is now used for making a cuppa, storage, office space and a loo.

Listed building consent to "deal with water ingress issues" with the flat roof was required as the structure, close to the rear of the Dunfermline Carnegie Library & Galleries, is more than 125-years-old and is category B-listed.

Dunfermline Press: Built in 1897, there appears to be some confusion as to whether this was an old mortuary or a toolhouse for the graveyard at Dunfermline Abbey.Built in 1897, there appears to be some confusion as to whether this was an old mortuary or a toolhouse for the graveyard at Dunfermline Abbey. (Image: Google Maps)

The site description is the old mortuary but a council report explained: "This application relates to a former toolhouse within the grounds of Dunfermline Abbey.

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"The building was constructed in 1897 and designed by John Houston.

"It is said to have been a mortuary, but more recent evidence suggests the building has traditionally been a toolhouse for the graveyard, and is currently now used by staff at Historic Environment Scotland as a storage, toilet and office space."

It added: "The building is part of a listing including the entrance gateways, boundary walls and railings, on the grounds that surround Dunfermline Abbey.

"The listing was designated as category B listed in March 2000 and also forms part of a wider category A listing when included with the actual buildings of Dunfermline Abbey, the new Abbey Parish Church and Nave."