Perth FM News - 11th January 2010

MP says power line decision does not 'inspire confidence'

After the decision was approved on the new Beauly to Denny power lines by the Scottish Government last week, many politicians have spoken out about the handling of the affair. Now MP for Ochil and South Perthshire Gordon Banks has commented saying the decision 'does not inspire confidence'. Much has been made of the conditions of the approval that contain no clear cut provision for undergrounding of the lines as they pass through Highland Perthshire. As residents of Muthil and Crieff will be directly affected by the lines, Mr Banks has said he will write to the Scottish Executive to ensure locals are consulted.

Dunkeld indoor sports centre moves forward

Plans to create a new indoor sports and recreational centre for Dunkeld and Birnam have taken a step forward. Years of planning and fundraising have already gone into the bid and now a grant has been awarded by the National Lottery Grants for All scheme. The 10 thousand pound award will allow the Dunkeld and Birnam Leisure Group to hire a development consultant to work with the committee to take the project forward. A site at the Dunkeld and Birnam Recreation Club has already been identified for the proposed indoor centre.

City status bid garners support

Local politicians have all come out in support of a possible bid for city status for Perth. With the announcement of a new city competition for 2012, a bid from Perth is expected and has already garnered support from the Scotland Office. It's hoped that the Perth 800 events will bring attention to the area, and local MP Pete Wishart has said he still hopes city status could be regained this year, as part of the celebrations.