City’s milestone
Former Provost on benefits of recognition
Lord Lieutenant Mel Jameson and former Provost John Hulbert during the Perth city status celebrations in 2012 secure development plans from joining this umbrella group.
He continued: “Perth was the first of Scotland’s cities to progress from the drawing board of the Scottish Cities Alliance to an actual development plan - the £30m project of houses, shops and other facilities at Thimblerow.
“Without city status Perth’s outlook would have been bleak. It would have become part of the Dundee City Region and its future would have been determined by a Dundee-centric administration.
“Thankfully the centrality of Perth within its own city region was secured, and this will enable Perth to take full advantage of the multi-million Tayside and Fife City Deal as a city equal with Dundee, ensuring a twin city approach.”
As Perth celebrates its fifth anniversary, the people of the Fair City are looking towards the bid for UK City of Culture 2021.
Dr Hulbert continued by saying the regained city status would boost Perth’s chances.
He added: “Being a city is not an essential requirement for the city of culture, but it is certainly a huge benefit. City status was secured, and it can never be taken away again.
“Cultural events received a huge boost during the Perth800 celebrations, and their momentum has continued since.”