Perth FM News - 10th Feb 2010

Perthshire community praised for starting national enquiry

Members of a Perthshire community have been praised for starting a national enquiry into out-of-hours health care. Since NHS Tayside withdrew its 24hour GP cover in the remote town of Kinloch Rannoch, campaigners warn that lives are at risk. MSP Murdo Fraser believes local campaigners deserve a huge amount of credit for the role they have played in moving the issue up on the political agenda and pledges to do everything in his power to ensure that they succeed. Holyrood's health and sports committee visited Kinloch Rannoch just last month to take evidence on the matter.

Housing market felt 'big freeze'

Tayside's housing market felt the recent big freeze alongside the rest of the country. The icy winter is being blamed for the drop in house buying, which had picked up towards the end of 2009 according to figures by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors. It is said that those planning on selling their property don't want to put it on the market during the cold months and people are unwilling to buy and move during winter months. Property sales are hoped to pick up by Spring time.

By-laws needed for Perthshire lochs

Any new by-laws brought in to prevent people from camping in certain areas on the shores of Loch Lomond also need to be brought in for lochs in Highland Perthshire. That's the demand from MSP Murdo Fraser, who wants to prevent irresponsible campers coming to Perthshire. In the past, Mr Fraser has held public meetings regarding problems of 'wild' camping by Lochs Rannoch and Tummel, and the conduct of some groups camping on the lochs’ shores. He believes Perthshire's lochs have some of the most idyllic scenery in Scotland, and while he welcomes people coming to the area and supporting the local economy, the actions of a minority cause concern to local residents. Mr Fraser wants Perth and Kinross Council to consider the implementation of by-laws here, to protect the environment and local communities.