A graphic shows the proposed expansion of the resort. Enlarge Image

St Andrews Bay bosses want to convert a nearby derelict steading into further accommodation and leisure facilities and also build 37 lodges.

If approved, the development is expected to create 80 permanent jobs and a further 350 during construction.

There have been some local concerns over the size of the project and a public consultation on the development is taking place.

The Fife resort opened in 2001 and includes a 217-bedroom hotel, a spa, conference centre, two championship golf courses and a clubhouse.

Stephen Carter, general manager, said the resort was losing �5m of business a year because of a shortage of rooms.

The hotel, which attracts much of its revenue from conferences, said it needed 150 more rooms to meet demand.

This will bring extra employment and extra spend and will assist with the growth of tourism in this area Stephen Carter General manager

It is estimated that the expansion would inject a further �7m into the local economy each year through visitor spending.

Mr Carter said: "This will bring extra employment and extra spend and will assist with the growth of tourism in this area.

"It would help extend the tourist season, which we have already done quite successfully over the last five years."

Planning permission already exists for conversion of the steadings as it was granted with that for the existing hotel.

Resort chiefs hope to get the green light for the lodges in February.

'Greater size'

Construction, in two phases, is expected to take two years.

Public consultation on the plans is under way.

Councillor for the area Peter Douglas said local people had already voiced concerns over the size of the project.

He added: "Further development of the steadings site at the resort had always been anticipated, but I think the plans have grown to a rather greater size than locals expected.

"The consultation process gives both the resort and the council an opportunity to listen to the views of local people and I'm sure the planning committee will take these into account before making any decision."

An exhibition of the plans takes place in the Byre Theatre on Wednesday, 11 January from 1000 to 1800 GMT and in the hotel for six days thereafter.