Perth FM News - 11th June 2010

Full demolition of City Hall a possibility

Full demolition on the City Hall is to be discussed at a meeting of the Council next week. Recommendation for consideration of the proposal, along with the creation of a civic square will be discussed at the special meeting. In a public poll held earlier this year the majority of respondents favoured some form of demolition. Consultants have said the creation of a public space would cost around 3 million pounds, but that it would give an economic benefit over time. Other options laid out in the consultation process did not gain as much support from the public.

MP hopeful of cord solution

MP for Ochil and South Perthshire Gordon Banks has been strongly involved in campaigning on the issue of loop corded blinds. A death in his constituency in 2008 and two recent deaths in England have proved to Mr Banks the dangers involved to children. During a Committee meeting in the European Parliament on Monday it was said that a joint statement between the EU, USA and Canada was due to be made on the issue of the safety of the cords. Mr Banks hopes this will put the movement on track to get to a solution.

Mod begins in Aberfeldy

The 79th Perthshire and Angus Provincial Mod opens in Aberfeldy today. 800 entrants are expected to take part in the celebration of the Gaelic language and culture. Competitions include song, piping, accordion and fiddle playing. Organisers have been pleased to see an increase in young performers taking part in the last few years, which has allayed fears for the future of the language. The events are mainly to be held in the Town Hall - which may need to change for future events as Perth and Kinross Council consider selling the building despite upgrades made recently.