City make-over in time for big event

Mar 27 2009 by Our Correspondent, Perthshire Advertiser Friday

PERTH’S High Street is to be given a £1million face-lift this year, with the new-look thoroughfare expected to be ready for next year’s City of Perth 800th anniversary celebrations.

It is proposed to bring forward a project for the partial reconstruction of the High Street this summer. The scheme was originally proposed for the 2010/11 financial year but Perth and Kinross Council decided to bring it forward so the work would be completed in advance of this milestone in the city’s history in 2010.

Council leader Ian Miller said: “For some time now it has been obvious that the High Street needs work done on it to remove problems with ponding during heavy rain and to repair the paving in front of some shops.

“This proposal to accelerate funding was originally made by Councillor Archie MacLellan in his budget amendment to the council in February.

“Since then I have had the opportunity to fully evaluate the practical issues surrounding the contract being brought forward and I am pleased to say that it now looks to be achievable within the appropriate timescale.”

Councillor Miller explained that shopkeepers and businesses in the High Street were being consulted on the proposal. “So far there has been a very positive response.

“They are concerned to ensure that proper access is maintained during construction and that the works should be complete prior to the Christmas shopping period.

“It is now clear to me that both of these criteria can be met and I am therefore proposing to go ahead with it at the earliest opportunity, which should be in the September/October period.

“By carrying out this work in the new timeframe, we will be ensuring that the street is in tip-top condition for the 800th anniversary of Perth’s city status.

“The positive co-operation between myself and Councillor MacLellan is also indicative of the fact that at Perth and Kinross Council we are committed to working together for the good of our area. Councillor MacLellan is to be congratulated in bringing this worthwhile proposal forward.”

Councillor MacLellan, who represents the Perth City Centre Ward on the council, commented: “This is an outstanding example of what can be achieved by responsible opposition. The suggestion to bring forward money to upgrade the High Street was contained in the Labour Group budget and I am indebted to Councillor Miller for his interest in proposals coming from all areas of the council when these are geared towards the good of Perth and Kinross.

“This will ensure that the High Street in Perth is restored to its previous standing in time for the 800th celebrations of the granting of our City Charter and will help local businesses during this difficult time.”