Defibrillator and bleed kit to be installed outside St Andrews bank

Planning permission has been granted to put the equipment outside the Nationwide Building Society at 151 Market Street.

A statement on behalf of Nationwide said the initiative is part of their efforts to support the communities they serve.

It explained: “As part of this commitment to community wellbeing, they aim to install life saving equipment to some of their branches to ensure people have rapid, 24/7 access to vital emergency equipment whenever it is needed.

“As such, they plan to install external defibrillators and bleed control kits on some Nationwide branches.

“Each piece of equipment will be housed in its own dedicated, secure external cabinet.”

A report by Fife Council planners explained that the bank is in a mid-19th century B-listed building in St Andrews conservation area.

Due to this, the plans had been amended so that no alterations have to be made to existing stonework.

It continued: “Whilst the units are small, their bright yellow and red polycarbonate casings would detract somewhat from the appearance of the Conservation Area.

“However, this should be weighed up against their importance – i.e. their proposed location and their colour would ensure that both would be easily visible to the public, ensuring a greater number of people would be aware of their existence, should either one be required in an emergency.

“The development proposal, as revised, would not materially harm the character and appearance of the St. Andrews Conservation Area and is considered compliant with National Guidance, Development Plan policy and all its related guidance.”