Perth to be split in two for next election?
A new report advocates the splitting of Perth in two – for next year's Scottish Parliamentary elections. The constituencies of Perth, North Tayside and Ochil cause problems as they straddle different council areas. A new Perthshire North and South is recommended by current MSP for Perth Roseanna Cunningham is a critic of the proposals as they use no natural boundaries. She says Perth is a small enough city, that splitting it into two constituencies would 'wipe it off the map.'
Theatre redevelopment plans unveiled
Ambitious plans for a revamp of Perth Theatre were unveiled yesterday. It's hoped that the 13 million pound project will include the creating of new rooms and adding a 225 seat performance space. The period features in the B-listed Edwardian auditorium will also be restored. A 3 million pound grant has been offered by the Gannochy Trust, adding to 2 million originally committed by the Council, who own the building. Other applications for funding will be considered in September.
Roadworks set to cause more misery
Roadworks on the A9 south of Perth could bring misery to motorists over this bank holiday weekend. The resurfacing work will be carried out on a length of road near Findo Gask, which is used by around 27 thousand vehicles each day. Transport Scotland insists the upgrading is essential to ensure the A9 operates safely. The work begins this evening, and it's hoped that all will be completed by early on Monday morning.
Friday, 28 May 2010
Thursday, 27 May 2010
Perth FM News - 27th May 2010
PKC wins Award from Keep Scotland Beautiful
For the second year running, Perth & Kinross Council has won the Outstanding Achievement Award from Keep Scotland Beautiful. The award is in recognition of the success of local efforts in the National Spring Clean campaign held during April 2010. Almost 5000 people from across the area took part in 133 clean-up events last month - more events than in any other area of Scotland. Many groups also recycled the litter they collected this year, helping reduce the amount going to landfill and supporting national waste reduction targets.
Orange Walk opposition grows
Opposition to next month's Orange Walk through Perth continues to grow with hundreds signing up to online petitions. Thousands are expected to descend on Perth for the parade, which will bring the city centre to a standstill on the last weekend in June. A facebook page set up to oppose the walk is demanding the council reverse its decision to let the march go ahead. Pete Wishart MP has also voiced his concerns.
New water safety campaign launched in Perth
A new publicity campaign has been launched today in the pubs and clubs of Perth carrying the safety message of 'don't drink and drown'. Posters and beer mats warning that alcohol and water don’t mix were designed by Perth College students. Alcohol is often a factor in incidents in and around waterways in Perth and Kinross during the summer, and could have lead to serious consequences. This year Safe-Tay will also be working with Perth and Kinross Council on the printing of a 'Be water wise' message on parking tickets, and new water safety signage throughout the area.
For the second year running, Perth & Kinross Council has won the Outstanding Achievement Award from Keep Scotland Beautiful. The award is in recognition of the success of local efforts in the National Spring Clean campaign held during April 2010. Almost 5000 people from across the area took part in 133 clean-up events last month - more events than in any other area of Scotland. Many groups also recycled the litter they collected this year, helping reduce the amount going to landfill and supporting national waste reduction targets.
Orange Walk opposition grows
Opposition to next month's Orange Walk through Perth continues to grow with hundreds signing up to online petitions. Thousands are expected to descend on Perth for the parade, which will bring the city centre to a standstill on the last weekend in June. A facebook page set up to oppose the walk is demanding the council reverse its decision to let the march go ahead. Pete Wishart MP has also voiced his concerns.
New water safety campaign launched in Perth
A new publicity campaign has been launched today in the pubs and clubs of Perth carrying the safety message of 'don't drink and drown'. Posters and beer mats warning that alcohol and water don’t mix were designed by Perth College students. Alcohol is often a factor in incidents in and around waterways in Perth and Kinross during the summer, and could have lead to serious consequences. This year Safe-Tay will also be working with Perth and Kinross Council on the printing of a 'Be water wise' message on parking tickets, and new water safety signage throughout the area.
Wednesday, 26 May 2010
Perth FM News - 26th May 2010
Vodafone launch mast appeal
Mobile phone giants vodafone are appealing to the Scottish Government after 18 months of attempts to build a mast in a residential area of Perth. Along with O2, the company have wanted to put a mast in Burghmuir Road and twice the applications have been rejected by councillors. It's new appeal to the Government reporter claims provision has been made for environmental conditions and striking an appropriate balance. The plans are within safety guidelines, though residents believe it has no place on their street.
Man arrested in connection with Blairgowrie assault
A 23 year old man has been arrested by Police in connection with an alleged assault in Blairgowrie. Arrested in the town yesterday, he is expected to appear at Perth Sheriff Court today on charges relating to the incident. Colin Bissett suffered a punctured lung when he was involved in an altercation over a week ago, with police treating the incident as attempted murder.
PKC set to take on listed building responsibility
Perth and Kinross Council is set to take over responsibility from the Scottish Government in dealing with certain kinds of Listed Building applications. The Council has been involved in a pilot scheme and now councillors will be asked today to apply to have the responsibility made permanent. Perth was one of only three authorities in Scotland to take part in the pilot scheme and was chosen because it was considered to have strong conservation expertise. The aim is to improve the management and efficiency of dealing with proposals relating to the historic environment.
Mobile phone giants vodafone are appealing to the Scottish Government after 18 months of attempts to build a mast in a residential area of Perth. Along with O2, the company have wanted to put a mast in Burghmuir Road and twice the applications have been rejected by councillors. It's new appeal to the Government reporter claims provision has been made for environmental conditions and striking an appropriate balance. The plans are within safety guidelines, though residents believe it has no place on their street.
Man arrested in connection with Blairgowrie assault
A 23 year old man has been arrested by Police in connection with an alleged assault in Blairgowrie. Arrested in the town yesterday, he is expected to appear at Perth Sheriff Court today on charges relating to the incident. Colin Bissett suffered a punctured lung when he was involved in an altercation over a week ago, with police treating the incident as attempted murder.
PKC set to take on listed building responsibility
Perth and Kinross Council is set to take over responsibility from the Scottish Government in dealing with certain kinds of Listed Building applications. The Council has been involved in a pilot scheme and now councillors will be asked today to apply to have the responsibility made permanent. Perth was one of only three authorities in Scotland to take part in the pilot scheme and was chosen because it was considered to have strong conservation expertise. The aim is to improve the management and efficiency of dealing with proposals relating to the historic environment.
Tuesday, 25 May 2010
Perth FM News - 25th May 2010
Approval sought for Prince's Civic Reception costs
Councilors are to be asked to approve spending of 10 thousand pounds on a civic reception at Scone Palace for Prince Charles. A special meeting of the provost's sub-committee has been called in advance of the royal visit next week. The Prince will be coming to Perth as part of the 800 celebrations and the programme includes visits to Stanley Mills, Balhousie Castle and a special farmer's market.The civic reception will host 200 guests representing the community.
Poppy Scotland appeals to Perth veterans
Poppy Scotland, the charity behind the Poppy Appeal, is urging veterans in Perth and Kinross in need of support to get in touch. The charity provides year-round support to those from all Service backgrounds and is keen to make sure eligible veterans receive the support they need.
Sensory Garden opened in Blairgowrie
And a new Japanese-themed sensory garden was officially opened at Blairgowrie Adult Resource Centre today. The garden is a therapeutic area for service users to enjoy, and their carers and members of the public can also use it. Sensory gardens are designed to stimulate the senses, using especially fragrant or tactile plants. The new Japanese sensory garden at Blairgowrie features bamboo screens, a pond, water features and a mix of plants and shrubs found in the Far East.
Councilors are to be asked to approve spending of 10 thousand pounds on a civic reception at Scone Palace for Prince Charles. A special meeting of the provost's sub-committee has been called in advance of the royal visit next week. The Prince will be coming to Perth as part of the 800 celebrations and the programme includes visits to Stanley Mills, Balhousie Castle and a special farmer's market.The civic reception will host 200 guests representing the community.
Poppy Scotland appeals to Perth veterans
Poppy Scotland, the charity behind the Poppy Appeal, is urging veterans in Perth and Kinross in need of support to get in touch. The charity provides year-round support to those from all Service backgrounds and is keen to make sure eligible veterans receive the support they need.
Sensory Garden opened in Blairgowrie
And a new Japanese-themed sensory garden was officially opened at Blairgowrie Adult Resource Centre today. The garden is a therapeutic area for service users to enjoy, and their carers and members of the public can also use it. Sensory gardens are designed to stimulate the senses, using especially fragrant or tactile plants. The new Japanese sensory garden at Blairgowrie features bamboo screens, a pond, water features and a mix of plants and shrubs found in the Far East.
Monday, 24 May 2010
Perth FM News - 24th May 2010
Perth to host Curling Champoinships
The Royal Caledonian Curling Club and the World Curling Federation have announced that Perth is to host the 2011 World Junior Curling Championships. Set to take place in March next year, the World Juniors are returning to the Dewar's Centre after 15 years. Perth plays host to many other national and Scottish Championship and was chosen partly because of the city's commitment to the sport.
Teenager pulled from River in Perthshire
Dramatic scenes on the River Isla near Coupar Angus last night, as a teenage boy was pulled from the waters. The 15 year old, who has not been named, was rushed to Ninewells after Fire and Rescue Crews pulled him out. Despite the heat of the day, the river was still cold and he was treated at the scene for hypothermia - he is said to be in a stable condition. Local charity Safe Tay is launching a major drive aimed at raising awareness of the dangers of rivers.
Investigation launched into fishmonger's fire
Fire crews from across Tayside were called into Perth early yesterday morning as business premises of fishmonger George Campbell and sons was reported ablaze. No injuries were reported, with no one in the factory at the time. Over one and a half hours was spent tackling the fire, with dampening down going on for a considerable time after. An investigation has now been launched into the cause of the fire. George Campbell and sons are a major supplier of fish to Scotland's hotel and catering industry, stocking many of Perth's restaurants.
The Royal Caledonian Curling Club and the World Curling Federation have announced that Perth is to host the 2011 World Junior Curling Championships. Set to take place in March next year, the World Juniors are returning to the Dewar's Centre after 15 years. Perth plays host to many other national and Scottish Championship and was chosen partly because of the city's commitment to the sport.
Teenager pulled from River in Perthshire
Dramatic scenes on the River Isla near Coupar Angus last night, as a teenage boy was pulled from the waters. The 15 year old, who has not been named, was rushed to Ninewells after Fire and Rescue Crews pulled him out. Despite the heat of the day, the river was still cold and he was treated at the scene for hypothermia - he is said to be in a stable condition. Local charity Safe Tay is launching a major drive aimed at raising awareness of the dangers of rivers.
Investigation launched into fishmonger's fire
Fire crews from across Tayside were called into Perth early yesterday morning as business premises of fishmonger George Campbell and sons was reported ablaze. No injuries were reported, with no one in the factory at the time. Over one and a half hours was spent tackling the fire, with dampening down going on for a considerable time after. An investigation has now been launched into the cause of the fire. George Campbell and sons are a major supplier of fish to Scotland's hotel and catering industry, stocking many of Perth's restaurants.
Friday, 21 May 2010
Perth FM News - 21st May 2010
Perthshire should be golfing centre
In the Scottish Parliament this week, local Conservative MSP Murdo Fraser made it clear that he wants to see Perthshire promoted more as a tourist area. He has now called on EventScotland and VisitScotland to do more to help. With the Ryder Cup coming to Gleneagles in 2014, he wants to see Perthshire billed as a golfing centre to attract more visitors. Tourism is a major industry across Perthshire, with some communities relying on a tourist economy.
Councilors to sign Waste Collection Commitment
Putting customers needs at the heart of waste and recycling service is the focus of a report going in front of councillors next week. Members of the Environment committee will be asked to sign up to the Waste Collection Commitment – a document that sets out the council's commitment to providing service that is value for money and meets customer needs. The plans have 10 principles which include regular, reliable collections, as much recycling as possible and consideration of special requests. The report already includes a note that the Council is undertaking many of the actions required to meet the principles.
No to part-privatisation of Post Offices says Perth MP
The UK coallition government has said it plans to seek part-privatisation of the Royal Mail. Perth's MP Pete Wishart has warned that the move could lead to job losses and service cuts, which could affect rural post offices across the area. He firmly believes the postal services should remain in public hands and plans to fight for the retention of the Royal Mail as it stands.
In the Scottish Parliament this week, local Conservative MSP Murdo Fraser made it clear that he wants to see Perthshire promoted more as a tourist area. He has now called on EventScotland and VisitScotland to do more to help. With the Ryder Cup coming to Gleneagles in 2014, he wants to see Perthshire billed as a golfing centre to attract more visitors. Tourism is a major industry across Perthshire, with some communities relying on a tourist economy.
Councilors to sign Waste Collection Commitment
Putting customers needs at the heart of waste and recycling service is the focus of a report going in front of councillors next week. Members of the Environment committee will be asked to sign up to the Waste Collection Commitment – a document that sets out the council's commitment to providing service that is value for money and meets customer needs. The plans have 10 principles which include regular, reliable collections, as much recycling as possible and consideration of special requests. The report already includes a note that the Council is undertaking many of the actions required to meet the principles.
No to part-privatisation of Post Offices says Perth MP
The UK coallition government has said it plans to seek part-privatisation of the Royal Mail. Perth's MP Pete Wishart has warned that the move could lead to job losses and service cuts, which could affect rural post offices across the area. He firmly believes the postal services should remain in public hands and plans to fight for the retention of the Royal Mail as it stands.
Thursday, 20 May 2010
Council hit back at teacher attack figures
Two local MSPs have branded attacks on teachers in Perth and Kinross schools as unacceptable after producing figures showing over 1300 attacks in the past 5 years. Conservatives Murdo Fraser and Liz Smith say one attack is too many and are calling for Centres to be set up that would take unruly pupils out of mainstream education. But Perth and Kinross Council are adamant that programmes put in place to help kurb the violence have vastly improved the situation, with a drop year on year in attacks.
Community climate challenge success
Two Perthshire community groups have made successful bids to the Climate Challenge fund, it has been announced today. Ardoch Development Association has been awarded 19 thousand pounds to fund an advisory role, to assist households implementing measures to reduce emissions by 10 percent. And the South Perth Community Partnership is to receive over 50 thousand pounds for an allotment project, encouraging social cohesion and the reduction of waste and CO2 emissions through organic gardening. The Climate Challenge Fund was launched by the Scottish Government in 2008 and totals over 27 million pounds.
Committee sees parties clash on school meal issue
Yesterday's Lifelong Learning Committee meeting saw a clash between the parties. Conservative Councillors stated earlier in the week that they believed plans for primary school children to receive free breakfasts was discriminatory – as the pilot scheme would only be launched in selected schools. Vice Convenor councillor George Hayton says he understands the 'fairness' argument but believes this new pilot is the best way forward.
Two local MSPs have branded attacks on teachers in Perth and Kinross schools as unacceptable after producing figures showing over 1300 attacks in the past 5 years. Conservatives Murdo Fraser and Liz Smith say one attack is too many and are calling for Centres to be set up that would take unruly pupils out of mainstream education. But Perth and Kinross Council are adamant that programmes put in place to help kurb the violence have vastly improved the situation, with a drop year on year in attacks.
Community climate challenge success
Two Perthshire community groups have made successful bids to the Climate Challenge fund, it has been announced today. Ardoch Development Association has been awarded 19 thousand pounds to fund an advisory role, to assist households implementing measures to reduce emissions by 10 percent. And the South Perth Community Partnership is to receive over 50 thousand pounds for an allotment project, encouraging social cohesion and the reduction of waste and CO2 emissions through organic gardening. The Climate Challenge Fund was launched by the Scottish Government in 2008 and totals over 27 million pounds.
Committee sees parties clash on school meal issue
Yesterday's Lifelong Learning Committee meeting saw a clash between the parties. Conservative Councillors stated earlier in the week that they believed plans for primary school children to receive free breakfasts was discriminatory – as the pilot scheme would only be launched in selected schools. Vice Convenor councillor George Hayton says he understands the 'fairness' argument but believes this new pilot is the best way forward.
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