Former J&G Innes bookshop in St Andrews to be turned into flats
J&G INNESA former bookshop in St Andrews famed for its ornate oak frontage looks set to be turned into shops and homes.
J&G Innes closed on Hogmanay 2023 having been run by the same family since 1879.
Fife Council's north east planning committee has approved the redevelopment of the property after receiving assurances its historic features will be retained.
The vacant category C-listed building, which sits on the corner of Church Street and South Street, is to have shops on the ground floor and five flats on the upper.
The bookshop was run for more than 140 years by the Innes family, and was where the St Andrews Citizen newspaper was founded.
The name of the newspaper is prominent in the shop's livery, leading it to be known locally as "The Citizen Shop".
During the committee meeting, councillors asked if the former store's appearance would be preserved.
Alastair Hamilton, service manager for development management, told councillors the site was a "prominent, well-known building" in the town.
He said: "Externally from the street, there is very little change.
"The building and all the external features including the diamond paned windows would be retained.
"The existing timber fascia and prominent glazed lantern detail would also be retained."
Councillor Jane Ann Liston said: "I am very impressed with this. I think all that is good about this building seems to be being retained."