Project looks to re-vamp Coupar Angus

Mar 5 2010 by Johnathon Menzies, Perthshire Advertiser Friday

A PAIR of east Perthshire properties could be the first to benefit from a scheme designed to transform Coupar Angus.

Drawn-up by Glamis-based architects James F Stephen, two local businesses have asked Perth and Kinross Council’s planning wing for permission to “restore and enhance” outlets in Commercial and George Street.

The proposed developments – submitted by retail firm Scotmid and husband and wife team Mr and Mrs M Matthews – are part of the area’s on-going Townscape Heritage Initiative (THI).

It hopes to stimulate investment of over £4million before 2012.

THI member Sara Carruthers said grants could be made available to anyone looking to spruce-up Coupar Angus shop fronts in the near future.

She said: “People looking for THI money have to have planning permission for their developments in place first.

“Local business owners can see what’s already happening in the town, such as the renovation of the Royal Hotel, and we’re hoping it will inspire them to carry-out work on their own properties.

“They will have to pay for a portion of any work themselves, but we can offer anything up to a ninety per cent contribution, depending on the proposals.”

The first site to be refurbished under the ambitious scheme was the former Co-op store on George Street – one of three “flagship” projects taking up a large chunk of the money.

It was converted into 12 new affordable homes by Perthshire Housing Association as part of a £2 million re-vamp last year.

Cash has been sought from Perth and Kinross Council, the Heritage Lottery Fund, Historic Scotland, Perth and Kinross Heritage Trust, Coupar Angus Regeneration Trust and property owners in the town.

Other national funding bodies have also been approached.

For more information e-mail SCarruthers@pkc.gov.uk