Local MP sees cold weather payment dividends
A local MP has said the fight for a change in Cold Weather payments has already seen dividends. MP for Ochil and South Perthshire Gordon Banks had campaigned for weather monitoring stations for Perthshire to be located closer to the area – moved to Strathallan instead of at Leuchars. Cold weather payments, are given to those eligible should the temperature for the area they live in drop below zero degrees. The first payments from the system, totally up to 290 thousand pounds for Strathallan and Braemar, were made yesterday to the areas covered, including Perthshire and Kinross.
Hollywood stars helps Aberfeldy campaign
Hollywood star Alan Cumming is assisting campaigners in Aberfeldy. The Scottish actor has agreed to help the town as they bid to re-open their local cinema. The 1.3 million pound appeal would breathe new life into the disused building, and it has already received part funding from the town centre regeneration fund. The cinema would be a community run 92-seat auditorium with a cafe bar featuring digital technology.
Scottish Gov't offer winter-proofing to residents of Perth
With the big freeze and sub zero temperatures predicted over the Christmas period, help is being offered to households in Perth and Kinross to winter-proof homes. The Met office is predicting that temperatures in the region could plummet to minus 12 celcius. In a bid to cut fuel bills the Scottish Government is offering a variety of free energy saving and draft proofing devices to eligible young families, those on benefits and the elderly. The 60 million pound scheme - the energy assistance package – can supply insulation and boilers which generate cheap heating and those who would like assistance can log onto energy assistance package dot com for more information.
Local businesses must comply with age restricted products
Local businesses selling age restricted products, such as cigarettes and alcohol, must comply with the law, or risk prosecution. That's the message from Perth & Kinross Council's Trading Standards Team, who found that 28 percent of retailers tested sold cigarettes to under-age teenagers. In September and November this year, it was found that youngsters, aged 15 and 16, were able to buy cigarettes from 8 out of the 29 retailers tested across Perth and Kinross. Enforcement action is being taken against the retailers who sold cigarettes illegaly to young people, and if anyone is in doubt about the laws they can contact Trading Standards for a free guide.
Wednesday, 23 December 2009
Tuesday, 22 December 2009
Perth FM News - 22nd Dec 09
PKC officials defend Perthshire tourism
Perth and Kinross officials have leaped to the defence of the local tourist industry, after figures were released last week that showed a drop in visitors. MSP Murdo Fraser commented that the figures were worrying and called on VisitScotland and the Local Authority to do more to promote the area. Leader of the Council Ian Miller pointed to a VistScotland survey that showed an increase in footfall to Tourist information Centres over the summer months. And local MP Pete Wishart has also commented that the tourism sector is in 'pretty good shape' and it would be best not to focus on 'one selective survey'.
PRI consultant named President of Edinburgh College
A consultant at Perth Royal Infirmary has been elected as president for the Royal College of Physicians of Edinburgh. Dr Neil Dewhurst is a Consultant Cardiologist and GP with over 30 years of experience. The Doctor will assume the role, taking over from the current President in March and will serve for three years. As President, Dr Dewhurst will hope to be heavily involved in influencing public health policy and is already urging MSPs to support the introduction of minimum pricing as the Alcohol Bill progresses.
'Callous' thieves steal from disabled woman in Perth
Thieves in Perth have stolen a handbag from a 64 year old disabled woman, while she was waiting for her husband to assemble her mobility scooter. The bag was snatched by two men after the woman placed it on the ground. The theft took place just after 2 o'clock on Friday in Victoria Street, before the men ran off into Nelson Street and South William Street. Tayside Police are now appealing for help on what they have called a callous crime.
Perth and Kinross officials have leaped to the defence of the local tourist industry, after figures were released last week that showed a drop in visitors. MSP Murdo Fraser commented that the figures were worrying and called on VisitScotland and the Local Authority to do more to promote the area. Leader of the Council Ian Miller pointed to a VistScotland survey that showed an increase in footfall to Tourist information Centres over the summer months. And local MP Pete Wishart has also commented that the tourism sector is in 'pretty good shape' and it would be best not to focus on 'one selective survey'.
PRI consultant named President of Edinburgh College
A consultant at Perth Royal Infirmary has been elected as president for the Royal College of Physicians of Edinburgh. Dr Neil Dewhurst is a Consultant Cardiologist and GP with over 30 years of experience. The Doctor will assume the role, taking over from the current President in March and will serve for three years. As President, Dr Dewhurst will hope to be heavily involved in influencing public health policy and is already urging MSPs to support the introduction of minimum pricing as the Alcohol Bill progresses.
'Callous' thieves steal from disabled woman in Perth
Thieves in Perth have stolen a handbag from a 64 year old disabled woman, while she was waiting for her husband to assemble her mobility scooter. The bag was snatched by two men after the woman placed it on the ground. The theft took place just after 2 o'clock on Friday in Victoria Street, before the men ran off into Nelson Street and South William Street. Tayside Police are now appealing for help on what they have called a callous crime.
Friday, 18 December 2009
Perth FM News - 18th Dec 09
Power line decision delayed
Despite original plans, a decision on the planned upgrades for the Beauly to Denny power line will not be made in 2009 The decision will now be made in 2010, in a Ministerial Statement to Parliament. The delay now means groups and communities will have to wait longer to hear the fate of one of the largest planning applications Scotland has seen since devolution. Communities across northern Perthshire will be affected by the lines, and have been campaigning to get the upgrades grounded so as to allay fears of possible health hazards as well as a potentially negative visual impact.
Provost supports Unplugged initiative
Provost John Hulbert has today given his support for the Cittaslow Perth’s 'Unplugged' initiative, aimed at encouraging households and businesses to reduce CO2 emissions by unplugging appliances. Cittaslow Perth declared today to be 'Perth and Kinross Unplugged Day' as the United Nations Climate Change Conference ends in Copenhagen. It's estimated that leaving appliances like televisions and computers on standvy results in 4 million tonnes of CO2 emissions in the UK, and costs households an extra 37 pounds a year. The Provost is leading the way as he and Council staff switch off unused electrical equipment in the Council offices.
Mental health centres receive positive reviews
And Perthshire's mental health centres have received positive inspection reviews from the Care commission. The centres at Meadowell and Springwell were assessed as 'very good' in each of four different criteria examined by inspectors during their visit in June. The Meadowell centre provides service placements for those living in the Strathmore area, and Springwell for those in Strathearn and Kinross. Both centres scored well in the quality of care, environment, staffing and management.
Despite original plans, a decision on the planned upgrades for the Beauly to Denny power line will not be made in 2009 The decision will now be made in 2010, in a Ministerial Statement to Parliament. The delay now means groups and communities will have to wait longer to hear the fate of one of the largest planning applications Scotland has seen since devolution. Communities across northern Perthshire will be affected by the lines, and have been campaigning to get the upgrades grounded so as to allay fears of possible health hazards as well as a potentially negative visual impact.
Provost supports Unplugged initiative
Provost John Hulbert has today given his support for the Cittaslow Perth’s 'Unplugged' initiative, aimed at encouraging households and businesses to reduce CO2 emissions by unplugging appliances. Cittaslow Perth declared today to be 'Perth and Kinross Unplugged Day' as the United Nations Climate Change Conference ends in Copenhagen. It's estimated that leaving appliances like televisions and computers on standvy results in 4 million tonnes of CO2 emissions in the UK, and costs households an extra 37 pounds a year. The Provost is leading the way as he and Council staff switch off unused electrical equipment in the Council offices.
Mental health centres receive positive reviews
And Perthshire's mental health centres have received positive inspection reviews from the Care commission. The centres at Meadowell and Springwell were assessed as 'very good' in each of four different criteria examined by inspectors during their visit in June. The Meadowell centre provides service placements for those living in the Strathmore area, and Springwell for those in Strathearn and Kinross. Both centres scored well in the quality of care, environment, staffing and management.
Thursday, 17 December 2009
Perth FM News - 17th Dec 09
Provost becomes 'Mayor for Peace'
The Provost of Perth, Dr John Hulbert, has become a 'Mayor for Peace' by joining his counterparts from other cities in signing up for a global anti-nuclear lobby. The council endorsed the move at a meeting yesterday and have also approved a one thousand pound donation to the campaign, which was started by the Mayors of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. Members have no formal obligations or costs but can support the organisations international campaign work, with two major drives already underway. Mayors for Peace is composed of cities from over 130 countries around the world supporting a program working towards the abolition of nuclear weapons.
Perthshire one of few areas with drop in tourism
Tourism in Perthshire has seen a drop this year, according to a VisitScotland report.
One of only three areas in Scotland to see a fall in numbers compared to the same period for 2008, the drop of 3.4 percent could equate to approximately 20 thousand visitors. Conservative MSP for Mid-Scotland and Fife Murdo Fraser believes more needs to be done to promote Perthshire as a tourist destination. Tourism is Perthshire's biggest industry and Mr Fraser wants to see more focus on Perthshire from both VisitScotland and the Scottish Government.
Council welcomes school performance figures
And Perth and Kinross Council has welcomed the latest figures published by the Government for school performances. The information highlights that Council schools are matching the national average for exam results at Standard Grade and surpassing it for Higher results. Achieving 5 Highers is the 'gold standard' for exam results and Perth and Kinross is among the top five areas in Scotland. The Council's Lifelong learner convenor Liz Grant has said they are striving for consistency in exam performances to ensure young people can reach the highest levels of success.
The Provost of Perth, Dr John Hulbert, has become a 'Mayor for Peace' by joining his counterparts from other cities in signing up for a global anti-nuclear lobby. The council endorsed the move at a meeting yesterday and have also approved a one thousand pound donation to the campaign, which was started by the Mayors of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. Members have no formal obligations or costs but can support the organisations international campaign work, with two major drives already underway. Mayors for Peace is composed of cities from over 130 countries around the world supporting a program working towards the abolition of nuclear weapons.
Perthshire one of few areas with drop in tourism
Tourism in Perthshire has seen a drop this year, according to a VisitScotland report.
One of only three areas in Scotland to see a fall in numbers compared to the same period for 2008, the drop of 3.4 percent could equate to approximately 20 thousand visitors. Conservative MSP for Mid-Scotland and Fife Murdo Fraser believes more needs to be done to promote Perthshire as a tourist destination. Tourism is Perthshire's biggest industry and Mr Fraser wants to see more focus on Perthshire from both VisitScotland and the Scottish Government.
Council welcomes school performance figures
And Perth and Kinross Council has welcomed the latest figures published by the Government for school performances. The information highlights that Council schools are matching the national average for exam results at Standard Grade and surpassing it for Higher results. Achieving 5 Highers is the 'gold standard' for exam results and Perth and Kinross is among the top five areas in Scotland. The Council's Lifelong learner convenor Liz Grant has said they are striving for consistency in exam performances to ensure young people can reach the highest levels of success.
Wednesday, 16 December 2009
Perth FM News - 16th Dec 09
Local MSP worried by anti-depressant use in Tayside
A local MSP has branded new figures on the use of anti-depressants as 'extremely worrying' for people in Tayside. Labour MSP for Mid-Scotland and Fife Dr Richard Simpson, is a fellow of the Royal College of Psychiatry is concerned that the Tayside area is ranked high in a table for those on anti-depressants. With almost 10 percent of the local population on the drugs, Dr Simpson says more must be done to stop people needing to resort to them in the first place. He has said more advice, help and support is needed for those who are burdened and worried so that anti-depressants are only used as a last resort.
Perth canon could become UK's first female Bishop
The canon of St. Ninian's Cathedral in Perth could become Britain's first female bishop. The Reverend Canon Dr Alison Peden has been shortlisted for the role of Bishop of Glasgow and Galloway in the Scottish Episcopal Church and is among three candidates being considered. The three were selected by a committee of clergy and lay church members who represent the diocese and the wider church. Women have been allowed to become bishops in the Scottish Episcopal Church since 2003 but Dr Peden is the first to be shortlisted.
Perth landmark to see restoration
A famous Perth landmark will hopefully be opened once more to the public in the coming year, thanks to Regeneration Funding. The Fair Maid's house, made famous through Sir Walter Scott's novel 'The Fair Maid of Perth' has been closed for the last few years, with the Perth Common Good fund keeping it wind and water tight. The Royal Scottish Geographical Society moved into Perth last year and hope to use the House to display many of the old maps and documents in their possession.
A local MSP has branded new figures on the use of anti-depressants as 'extremely worrying' for people in Tayside. Labour MSP for Mid-Scotland and Fife Dr Richard Simpson, is a fellow of the Royal College of Psychiatry is concerned that the Tayside area is ranked high in a table for those on anti-depressants. With almost 10 percent of the local population on the drugs, Dr Simpson says more must be done to stop people needing to resort to them in the first place. He has said more advice, help and support is needed for those who are burdened and worried so that anti-depressants are only used as a last resort.
Perth canon could become UK's first female Bishop
The canon of St. Ninian's Cathedral in Perth could become Britain's first female bishop. The Reverend Canon Dr Alison Peden has been shortlisted for the role of Bishop of Glasgow and Galloway in the Scottish Episcopal Church and is among three candidates being considered. The three were selected by a committee of clergy and lay church members who represent the diocese and the wider church. Women have been allowed to become bishops in the Scottish Episcopal Church since 2003 but Dr Peden is the first to be shortlisted.
Perth landmark to see restoration
A famous Perth landmark will hopefully be opened once more to the public in the coming year, thanks to Regeneration Funding. The Fair Maid's house, made famous through Sir Walter Scott's novel 'The Fair Maid of Perth' has been closed for the last few years, with the Perth Common Good fund keeping it wind and water tight. The Royal Scottish Geographical Society moved into Perth last year and hope to use the House to display many of the old maps and documents in their possession.
Monday, 14 December 2009
Perth FM News - 14th Dec 09
Whisky figures show global growth
New figures have shown that more than 807 million bottles of Whisky were shipped abroad during the first nine months of 2009. Local MP Gordon Banks has welcomed the news for the Perthshire area, noting that Global shipments grew by 1.5 percent compared to 2008. The whisky industry is important to Scotland and to the Perthshire area, whether through production or the distillery tourist attractions. The figures, published by the Scotch Whisky Association has shown that the industry remains confident of future growth as international conditions improve.
New initiative launched for over 50s
People living in Perth and Kinross aged 50 and over are being asked to come forward with bright ideas to help improve the lives of older people in the area. An initiative has been launched today called Age Unlimited, which aims at tackling the issue of social isolation in the elderly. Launched by NESTA, (The National Endowment for Science Technology and the Arts, the initiative will give successful applicants support and funding of up to 10 thousand pounds to develop their idea into a live community project. The population in Scotland is predicted to age considerably between now and 2031 and the volume of the country's ageing society is placing increasing demands on areas such as health and care services.
Government invests 1 million in MacMillan
The Scottish Government has invested over 1 million pounds in a pilot expansion scheme of MacMillan Cancer Support's financial advice services. The money means Macmillan are able to offer advice in all of Scotland's five cancer centres and has also helped projects in Tayside for people affected by dementia, stroke and COPD. Perth and Kinross housing and health concener, Councillor Peter Barrett believes the help is extremely valuable for those affected who may not know what benefits they are entitled to. The cost of having these conditions can run into thousands of pounds and money worries can heap on added stress.
New figures have shown that more than 807 million bottles of Whisky were shipped abroad during the first nine months of 2009. Local MP Gordon Banks has welcomed the news for the Perthshire area, noting that Global shipments grew by 1.5 percent compared to 2008. The whisky industry is important to Scotland and to the Perthshire area, whether through production or the distillery tourist attractions. The figures, published by the Scotch Whisky Association has shown that the industry remains confident of future growth as international conditions improve.
New initiative launched for over 50s
People living in Perth and Kinross aged 50 and over are being asked to come forward with bright ideas to help improve the lives of older people in the area. An initiative has been launched today called Age Unlimited, which aims at tackling the issue of social isolation in the elderly. Launched by NESTA, (The National Endowment for Science Technology and the Arts, the initiative will give successful applicants support and funding of up to 10 thousand pounds to develop their idea into a live community project. The population in Scotland is predicted to age considerably between now and 2031 and the volume of the country's ageing society is placing increasing demands on areas such as health and care services.
Government invests 1 million in MacMillan
The Scottish Government has invested over 1 million pounds in a pilot expansion scheme of MacMillan Cancer Support's financial advice services. The money means Macmillan are able to offer advice in all of Scotland's five cancer centres and has also helped projects in Tayside for people affected by dementia, stroke and COPD. Perth and Kinross housing and health concener, Councillor Peter Barrett believes the help is extremely valuable for those affected who may not know what benefits they are entitled to. The cost of having these conditions can run into thousands of pounds and money worries can heap on added stress.
Friday, 11 December 2009
Perth FM News - 11th Dec 09
Worries for power line announcement
A decision on the Beauly to Denny powerline is expected by the end of this year, however there are worries from local politicians that the announcement won't be made in Parliament. MSP Murdo Fraser has called on the Scottish Government to be more transparent and allow the decision to be scrutinised when it's announced. The power line upgrade is possibly the biggest planning application the Scottish Government has seen and the public consultation period has been long. Communities in Perthshire will be affected, and are asking for the lines to be put underground to avoid adverse affects.
Scone supermarket plans attract MP's attention
A Local MP has written to Perth and Kinross Council's Head of Planning after a committee granted outline planning consent this week for a supermarket in Scone. MP Pete Wishart had previously met with residents who were opposed to having a supermarket in the village, currently planned for the Park and Ride site. The council received only 2 letters in support, and over 80 in opposition but believed the silent majority would welcome the new addition. Mr Wishart's letter includes the concerns raised by residents, including the possible effect on the current retail outlets as well as questioning the need for another supermarket in the area.
Public consultation proposed over City Hall
Proposals are to be put forward at the next Full Council meeting for public consultation on the future of the City Hall. If approved, the process will begin in January and the report details three different options comprising re-use, demolishing or partial demolishing of the Hall. Consultations will take many forms, with online questionnaires and focus groups.
A decision on the Beauly to Denny powerline is expected by the end of this year, however there are worries from local politicians that the announcement won't be made in Parliament. MSP Murdo Fraser has called on the Scottish Government to be more transparent and allow the decision to be scrutinised when it's announced. The power line upgrade is possibly the biggest planning application the Scottish Government has seen and the public consultation period has been long. Communities in Perthshire will be affected, and are asking for the lines to be put underground to avoid adverse affects.
Scone supermarket plans attract MP's attention
A Local MP has written to Perth and Kinross Council's Head of Planning after a committee granted outline planning consent this week for a supermarket in Scone. MP Pete Wishart had previously met with residents who were opposed to having a supermarket in the village, currently planned for the Park and Ride site. The council received only 2 letters in support, and over 80 in opposition but believed the silent majority would welcome the new addition. Mr Wishart's letter includes the concerns raised by residents, including the possible effect on the current retail outlets as well as questioning the need for another supermarket in the area.
Public consultation proposed over City Hall
Proposals are to be put forward at the next Full Council meeting for public consultation on the future of the City Hall. If approved, the process will begin in January and the report details three different options comprising re-use, demolishing or partial demolishing of the Hall. Consultations will take many forms, with online questionnaires and focus groups.
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