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.
Wednesday, 13 January 2010
Tuesday, 12 January 2010
Perth FM news - 12th January 2010
Blairgowrie road collision claims young driver's life
One man has died and two have been left injured after a road collision in Perthshire early this morning. The incident took place around 6.30 on the A93 south of Blairgowrie as a blue mini collided with a white van. The 17 year old driver of the died at the scene while his 19 year old passenger had to be cut free and was unconscious as he was transported to Ninewells. The road has closed while crash investigators examine the scene and Tayside Police have appealed for witnesses.
Possible flood warnings to come as snow thaws
Although weather forecasters expect the 'Big Freeze' to continue for some time yet, MSP Murdo Fraser has called on the Scottish Government to set out what action its taking to tackle possible flooding once the snow thaws out. There is a possible flood risk in Perthshire if rain falls as the snow melts, as this adds to the volume of water as well as speeding up the rate of thaw. If the snow melts quickly, it could cause the Rivers Tay and Tummel to swell to dangerous levels, leaving homes, farms and businesses vulnerable. Mr Fraser is now asking what advice is being given to communities and farmers who will be threatened with possible flooding once the snow thaws.
Vane farm receives green accolade
A Kinross-shire nature reserve has been awarded the highest possible accolade by the Green Tourism Business Scheme. Vane Farm, near Loch Leven, is a haven for wildlife and attracts thousands of visitors every year. The RSPB reserve has been praised for its continuing high standard of environmental excellence and commitment to running a sustainable tourist attraction. With the awarding of its gold banding from the 2009 scheme, Vane Farm was also commended for generating its own energy with a solar array.
One man has died and two have been left injured after a road collision in Perthshire early this morning. The incident took place around 6.30 on the A93 south of Blairgowrie as a blue mini collided with a white van. The 17 year old driver of the died at the scene while his 19 year old passenger had to be cut free and was unconscious as he was transported to Ninewells. The road has closed while crash investigators examine the scene and Tayside Police have appealed for witnesses.
Possible flood warnings to come as snow thaws
Although weather forecasters expect the 'Big Freeze' to continue for some time yet, MSP Murdo Fraser has called on the Scottish Government to set out what action its taking to tackle possible flooding once the snow thaws out. There is a possible flood risk in Perthshire if rain falls as the snow melts, as this adds to the volume of water as well as speeding up the rate of thaw. If the snow melts quickly, it could cause the Rivers Tay and Tummel to swell to dangerous levels, leaving homes, farms and businesses vulnerable. Mr Fraser is now asking what advice is being given to communities and farmers who will be threatened with possible flooding once the snow thaws.
Vane farm receives green accolade
A Kinross-shire nature reserve has been awarded the highest possible accolade by the Green Tourism Business Scheme. Vane Farm, near Loch Leven, is a haven for wildlife and attracts thousands of visitors every year. The RSPB reserve has been praised for its continuing high standard of environmental excellence and commitment to running a sustainable tourist attraction. With the awarding of its gold banding from the 2009 scheme, Vane Farm was also commended for generating its own energy with a solar array.
Monday, 11 January 2010
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.
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.
Friday, 8 January 2010
Perth FM News - 8th January 2010
Farmers battle the big freeze
MSP for North Tayside John Swinney has today visited a farmer in Alyth along with Richard Lochhead – the cabinet secretary for Rural Affairs – to see how his farm and others are faring in the current weather. Farmers all across Scotland have been battling the worst weather conditions in decades but are still finding time to help their communities. Agricultural workers have been helping to clear roads with their tractors as well as caring for their own livestock and supplies whilst battling frozen water, frozen diesel and contending with collapsed sheds. Mr Swinney has said he’s very impressed and filled with admiration for the work the farmers have done.
No plans to reopen Etape inquiry
A community council chairman has been cleared of sabotaging last year's Etape Caledonia Cycling event. The race had to be postponed in May of last year when tacks were found en route, causing many punctures to wheels and minor injuries as a result of accidents. It was alleged that Alexander Grosset of Bridge of Gaur had shown disregard for the safety of competitors and causing damage to bicycles and emergency service vehicles. He has now been cleared of all charges and the Police currently have no plans to re-open their inquiry into the sabotage.
Call for offenders to clear streets
"Get offenders to help clear the Perth and Kinross pavements" is the call coming from a local MSP. Mid-Scotland and Fife Representative Murdo Fraser raised the issue in a First Minister's Question Time yesterday when Scottish Conservative leader Annabel Goldie asked the First Minister to use those doing Community Service to help. During the exchange it emerged that only 6 percent of available criminals doing community service were already helping throughout Scotland. With the weather causing havoc across the area, Mr Fraser believes using offenders should be part of the solution as they repay their debt to society.
MSP for North Tayside John Swinney has today visited a farmer in Alyth along with Richard Lochhead – the cabinet secretary for Rural Affairs – to see how his farm and others are faring in the current weather. Farmers all across Scotland have been battling the worst weather conditions in decades but are still finding time to help their communities. Agricultural workers have been helping to clear roads with their tractors as well as caring for their own livestock and supplies whilst battling frozen water, frozen diesel and contending with collapsed sheds. Mr Swinney has said he’s very impressed and filled with admiration for the work the farmers have done.
No plans to reopen Etape inquiry
A community council chairman has been cleared of sabotaging last year's Etape Caledonia Cycling event. The race had to be postponed in May of last year when tacks were found en route, causing many punctures to wheels and minor injuries as a result of accidents. It was alleged that Alexander Grosset of Bridge of Gaur had shown disregard for the safety of competitors and causing damage to bicycles and emergency service vehicles. He has now been cleared of all charges and the Police currently have no plans to re-open their inquiry into the sabotage.
Call for offenders to clear streets
"Get offenders to help clear the Perth and Kinross pavements" is the call coming from a local MSP. Mid-Scotland and Fife Representative Murdo Fraser raised the issue in a First Minister's Question Time yesterday when Scottish Conservative leader Annabel Goldie asked the First Minister to use those doing Community Service to help. During the exchange it emerged that only 6 percent of available criminals doing community service were already helping throughout Scotland. With the weather causing havoc across the area, Mr Fraser believes using offenders should be part of the solution as they repay their debt to society.
Thursday, 7 January 2010
Perth FM News - 7th January 2010
MSP raises concern over Cadet cuts
Conservative MSP Liz Smith has raised the issue of funding for the Army Cadet Force in the Scottish Parliamant. The Mid-Scotland and Fife representative asked parliament about the impact the current cuts will have north of the border, amidst concerns for the future of the Cadets. In response, the Minister for Housing and Communities has said the Scottish position has been made clear to the UK Government, but it's a matter for the MoD. The cuts have left the MoD asking instructors, many of whom are retired army officers, to run training exercises for free.
MSPs comment on power line decision
MSPs have commented on the difficult decision for the now approved plans for upgraded power lines stretching from the Highlands to Central Scotland. The Beauly to Denny power lines, which will pass through Highland Perthshire communities, will connect renewable power projects to the national grid. Environment Minister and local MSP Roseanna Cunningham pleased to see visual impact schemes put in place for various areas in Perthshire. However Conservative MSP Murdo Fraser has criticised the manner of the announcement and its effect on Muthill.
Perth resident win big in Lottery draw
And despite the cold weather, 2 lucky Perth residents were celebrating lottery wins over the festive period. The People's Postcode Lottery presenter Angus Purden arrived in Perth to deliver the good news to participants in the Main Street area of Perth, who shared 100 thousand pounds. A 76 year old grandmother and a long distance lorry driver now both plan to invest in new cars for their families. The Postcode Lottery also has charity partners, including the Scottish Woodland Trust in Perthshire, who benefit ticket proceeds.
Conservative MSP Liz Smith has raised the issue of funding for the Army Cadet Force in the Scottish Parliamant. The Mid-Scotland and Fife representative asked parliament about the impact the current cuts will have north of the border, amidst concerns for the future of the Cadets. In response, the Minister for Housing and Communities has said the Scottish position has been made clear to the UK Government, but it's a matter for the MoD. The cuts have left the MoD asking instructors, many of whom are retired army officers, to run training exercises for free.
MSPs comment on power line decision
MSPs have commented on the difficult decision for the now approved plans for upgraded power lines stretching from the Highlands to Central Scotland. The Beauly to Denny power lines, which will pass through Highland Perthshire communities, will connect renewable power projects to the national grid. Environment Minister and local MSP Roseanna Cunningham pleased to see visual impact schemes put in place for various areas in Perthshire. However Conservative MSP Murdo Fraser has criticised the manner of the announcement and its effect on Muthill.
Perth resident win big in Lottery draw
And despite the cold weather, 2 lucky Perth residents were celebrating lottery wins over the festive period. The People's Postcode Lottery presenter Angus Purden arrived in Perth to deliver the good news to participants in the Main Street area of Perth, who shared 100 thousand pounds. A 76 year old grandmother and a long distance lorry driver now both plan to invest in new cars for their families. The Postcode Lottery also has charity partners, including the Scottish Woodland Trust in Perthshire, who benefit ticket proceeds.
Wednesday, 6 January 2010
Perth FM News - 6th January 2010
Cold Weather paymenty concerns
Concerns have been raised over the understanding of how cold weather payments are made over the winter months. The payments are part of an automatic scheme, made to those on Pension credits or Income support, when the temperature falls to 0 degree or below for 7 consecutive days. MP for Ochil and South Perthshire Gordon Banks also raised the issue of the wind chill factor and plans to table a parliamentary question on the issue, where he has also asked about the timescale for payments. Mr Banks lobbied to have the new station opened at Strathallan to better judge the temperature in Perthshire during the colder time of year.
Complaint on 'silence' from Council over bad weather
Despite assurances that the Council is doing all it can to deal with the road and pavement situation during the bad weather, complaints have been made over the handling of the situation. Councillor Alexander Stewart has now written to both Council Leader Ian Miller and Chief Executive Bernadette Malone asking for a report on the measures taken. Having fielded calls from residents in his ward area, Mr Stewart believes the silence from the Council during the bad conditions has enraged the people of Perth.
New city competition announced for Queen's Diamond Jubilee
A new city competition was announced yesterday by Lord Mandelson for the Queen's Diamond Jubilee in 2012. With Perth actively seeking city status, local MP Gordon Banks have welcomed the news. Secretary for State of Scotland Jim Murphy has also wished Perth success in its expected bid. With Perth 800 currently underway it is hoped that the events will raise awareness for the area, and local politicians recently gathered for a special dinner in London in support of a city bid.
Concerns have been raised over the understanding of how cold weather payments are made over the winter months. The payments are part of an automatic scheme, made to those on Pension credits or Income support, when the temperature falls to 0 degree or below for 7 consecutive days. MP for Ochil and South Perthshire Gordon Banks also raised the issue of the wind chill factor and plans to table a parliamentary question on the issue, where he has also asked about the timescale for payments. Mr Banks lobbied to have the new station opened at Strathallan to better judge the temperature in Perthshire during the colder time of year.
Complaint on 'silence' from Council over bad weather
Despite assurances that the Council is doing all it can to deal with the road and pavement situation during the bad weather, complaints have been made over the handling of the situation. Councillor Alexander Stewart has now written to both Council Leader Ian Miller and Chief Executive Bernadette Malone asking for a report on the measures taken. Having fielded calls from residents in his ward area, Mr Stewart believes the silence from the Council during the bad conditions has enraged the people of Perth.
New city competition announced for Queen's Diamond Jubilee
A new city competition was announced yesterday by Lord Mandelson for the Queen's Diamond Jubilee in 2012. With Perth actively seeking city status, local MP Gordon Banks have welcomed the news. Secretary for State of Scotland Jim Murphy has also wished Perth success in its expected bid. With Perth 800 currently underway it is hoped that the events will raise awareness for the area, and local politicians recently gathered for a special dinner in London in support of a city bid.
Tuesday, 5 January 2010
Perth FM News - 5th January 2010
Heavy snowfall affects Perth over Festive Period
Heavy snowfall over the festive period has made for difficult driving conditions, and has even led to many residents being housebound. Roads across the region that have not been considered priority routes for council gritters have left paths treacherous. Communities in the south of Perth have also been badly affected because of burst water mains on New Years Day leaving them without water or heating for hours at a time. Conditions have also affected refuse collections, as bin lorries struggle to reach those in residential streets.
New Year's resolutions for healthy Tayside
Research shows most Tayside resolutions will improve health as 49 per cent of people in the area try to stick to their New Year resolutions. The Scottish Opinion survey has shown that from losing weight, to giving up smoking or taking more exercise, almost half of all Taysiders are planning to make the switch to a healthier lifestyle. Making greener choices was also a popular New Year resolution choice - with many respondents deciding that 2010 will see them plan to cycle more or swap either a car journey each week for public transport or walking.
Perth 800 officially begins
The Perth 800 celebrations have now officially begun. Due to last the entirety of 2010, Perth 800 celebrates the 800th anniversary of the granting of Royal Burgh status to Perth. A programme on the themes of heritage, sport, arts and culture and the local economy will see more than one event a week being held throughout Perth and Kinross. One of the first major events attracted to Perth during the celebrations takes place at the end of January, as the Perth 800 International Chess Tournament takes place, with acclaimed champions from across the world competing.
Heavy snowfall over the festive period has made for difficult driving conditions, and has even led to many residents being housebound. Roads across the region that have not been considered priority routes for council gritters have left paths treacherous. Communities in the south of Perth have also been badly affected because of burst water mains on New Years Day leaving them without water or heating for hours at a time. Conditions have also affected refuse collections, as bin lorries struggle to reach those in residential streets.
New Year's resolutions for healthy Tayside
Research shows most Tayside resolutions will improve health as 49 per cent of people in the area try to stick to their New Year resolutions. The Scottish Opinion survey has shown that from losing weight, to giving up smoking or taking more exercise, almost half of all Taysiders are planning to make the switch to a healthier lifestyle. Making greener choices was also a popular New Year resolution choice - with many respondents deciding that 2010 will see them plan to cycle more or swap either a car journey each week for public transport or walking.
Perth 800 officially begins
The Perth 800 celebrations have now officially begun. Due to last the entirety of 2010, Perth 800 celebrates the 800th anniversary of the granting of Royal Burgh status to Perth. A programme on the themes of heritage, sport, arts and culture and the local economy will see more than one event a week being held throughout Perth and Kinross. One of the first major events attracted to Perth during the celebrations takes place at the end of January, as the Perth 800 International Chess Tournament takes place, with acclaimed champions from across the world competing.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
