Methil
| Methil | |
| Fife | |
|---|---|
 Number 3 dock at Methil Docks | |
| Location | |
| Grid reference: | NT365995 |
| Location: | 56°11’4"N, 3°1’20"W |
| Data | |
| Population: | 11,000 |
| Post town: | Leven |
| Postcode: | KY8 |
| Dialling code: | 01333 |
| Local Government | |
| Council: | Fife |
| Parliamentary constituency: |
Glenrothes |
Methil is a coastal town in Fife. It lies within a continuous urban area described as Levenmouth.
The town lies geographically between Largo Bay to the east and Wemyss Bay to the west. Previously an industrial maritime powerhouse of the region, it is now redirecting itself towards a green energy future. One boundary delineating Methil from its adjacent towns is the River Leven.
In and about the town
Immediately adjacent to the mouth of the river, was Methil power station, demolished in 2011 due to concerns about its dangerous proximity to the waters' edge. However, one of the energy producing wind turbines planned for the area might provide an alternative visual reference point, both from the Firth of Forth and from inland approaches to Methil, replacing the powers station's chimney.
Also nearby the mouth of the river is Bayview Stadium, home to 2nd Division East Fife Football Club.
There is not a beach area between Methil and the sea, but there is a wall which protects the redeveloping docklands area. This redevelopment is reducing the physical size of the Methil Docks, but is liable to enhance the importance of the docklands in its more modern role.
Methil Docks were particularly significant during Second World War for the movement of coal and other resources. Both the Power Station and docks were at that time serviced by railway companies. Now there are plans to reopen one of the railway lines, which will undoubtedly help both trade and improve public transport, including tourism for the whole area. The "Hydrogen Office" based in the docks aims to demonstrate the benefits of improved energy efficiency and renewable and hydrogen energy systems.[1]
Outside links
- The History of Methil
- Methil Heritage Centre: Local history museum and exhibition venue
- Buckhaven & Methil Miners' Brass Band
