Perth FM News - 13th January 2010

Power line could be built underground

Part of the Beauly to Denny Power line could still be built underground, according to the Scottish Energy Minister. At a meeting of the Economy, Energy and Tourism Committee this morning, MSP Jim Mather said Ministers cannot force developer Scottish and Southern Energy to go down that route but the option had been left open. The government approved plans for a 137-mile network of 600 pylons, running from the Highlands to central Scotland which passes through Highland Perthshire, including Muthil and Crieff. During the meeting, the Minister confirmed that work cannot be carried out in Perth and Kinross until all the mitigation schemes in the area have been agreed.

Perth charities net Government funding

Two Perth charities are to benefit from a 1 million pound Voluntary Sector Fund. The Glencairn House Care Home and Perthshire Women's Aid have been awarded grants to increase staff skills through training. It's hoped that through additional training, the groups can improve the services they provide for individuals, families and communities. The Scottish Government's Voluntary Sector Fund has been operating since 2001, and will make grants available to 67 organisations.

Crash victim named

A 17-year-old man who died in a road collision in Perthshire yesterday morning has been identified as Storm Andrews of Blairgowrie. Storm was driving a blue Mini northwards on the A93 when he was involved in a head on collision with a white van travelling south on a stretch of the road known locally as the Meikleour straight. The front seat passenger in the Mini, an 18-year-old man from the Blairgowrie area, sustained serious lower limb injuries and is in a critical condition within the Intensive Care Unit at Ninewells. The 50-year-old driver of the van, also from the Blairgowrie area, sustained serious facial and upper limb injuries and is also in a critical condition.