It is estimated that more than 12,000 radioactive particles have been removed from the Dalgety Bay coastline since 1990. The particles were first discovered during routine monitoring
A stunning seaside town with golden beaches is one of the most ‘radioactive’ places in the UK after being contaminated with material from scrapped World War Two aircraft.
Developed in 1962 Dalgety Bay is a small coastal town in Fife, located on the coast between Inverkeithing and Aberdour. The Scottish town also has a railway station for trains to Edinburgh, Kirkcaldy, Inverkeithing and Perth. There is also a regular bus network giving easy access to visitors. Furthermore, there are a number of historically important buildings including St Bridget’s, a distinctive former parish church, as well as several notable towers and mansions.
However, the coastline of Dalgety Bay was contaminated with radioactive material from scrapped World War Two aircraft. This meant that people were banned from accessing the bay between 2011 and 2023. The town used to be a base for the Royal Air Force and was the site of a major aircraft repair yard. Much of the industrial estate on the north of the town is built on the runway of the airfield.
Overall, it is estimated that more than 12,000 radioactive particles have been removed from the Dalgety Bay coastline since 1990. The particles were first discovered during routine monitoring, they pose a low risk to public health. To remove all the hazardous material, a team of engineers sifted through tonnes of sand and soil from the whole beach. Work was paused between October and April each year to protect overwintering birds. The project was last reported to have cost £10.5million.
YourMove website said of the area: “It boasts the 12th Century St Bridgets Kirk and the surrounding land was once owned by the Earl Of Moray who built the renowned Donibristle House. Dalgety Bay with its own tidal beach conveniently sits on the Fife Coastal Path stretching from Culross to the Tay Bridge which attracts visitors from all over Scotland and beyond. There are enjoyable walks through the Donibristle Woods.”
