Budget reactions not all favourable

Councillors yesterday decided on the new Local Authority budget for 2010/11. They faced tough decisions as Councils across the country battle against the recession. Council Tax has been frozen, and almost 2 million pounds will be spent on new initiatives, with education and road maintenance also benefiting. But it was also difficult for Councillors to agree. Leader of the Conservative Group, Alexander Stewart has accused the Administration of taking away vital services for the area.

Cameron speaks at Party Conference in Perth

MP David Cameron has been in Perth this afternoon as the keynote speaker at the Scottish Conservative Party Conference. The Party leader has promised a "fresh start" in relations between the Scots and UK governments, should he win the next UK election. While defending the union, Mr Cameron spoke about setting out proposals for a "new relationship" with the Holyrood SNP administration. Delegates in Perth were also warned that every vote in Scotland will count in the forthcoming general election. The Conservatives currently have only one MP in Scotland.

Blairgowrie improvements to go ahead

Extensive improvements will be made to Blairgowrie riverside after Perth and Kinross Countryside Trust secured a grant more than 90,000 pounds. The funding from the Scottish Rural Development Programme will cover the cost of enhancing existing paths, including the re-routing of the track near Cargill's leap. The main focus of the work will be to improve the drainage system in a bid to make the area less muddy. Sycamore trees will also be cleared to open up views of the river and reduce the amount of shading to the paths.