New storybook for Perth future
Ambitious plans to make Perth one of Europe’s great small cities took a step forward last week with the launch of a special storybook.
The theme and new identity for the Perth region have been captured in the book, which was launched at a breakfast meeting attended by local stakeholders, business and civic leaders on November 23.
The new book was launched at Perth Theatre, which re-opened last year following a £16 million restoration and expansion, and celebrates the city’s heritage and looks forward to the major new enterprises and investment for the area, including the multi-millionpound Tay Cities Deal.
The new story and associated resources have been developed alongside plans for a new network of city ambassadors.
Developed by Perth City Development Board, a private sector led partnership backed by Perth and Kinross Council, the storybook focuses on the region’s quality of life, independent culture and connectivity and will also underpin work underway to update the Perth City Plan.
The plan, backed by £400m of public investment, sets out the long-term vision and key initiatives to deliver sustainable growth for the city and wider region.
John Bullough, chair of Perth City Development Board, said: “Our city has so much to offer that sometimes it’s hard to see the wood for the trees.
“Perth’s new story makes it simple for everyone - businesses, civic leaders, and local people - to speak with a united voice about what makes our city and its surrounding area great.
“When we all work together, we can generate a real momentum which will drive the social and economic development of Perth and Kinross.”
Perth businessman Praveen Kumar, one of several early city ambassadors, welcomed the new initiative:“The storybook is an excellent idea, as it means we will all be reinforcing the same messages – that Perth offers a boutique feel and quality of life that you just can’t find elsewhere.”
Councillor Murray Lyle, leader of Perth and Kinross Council, said: “It’s heartening to see the pride and passion so many local leaders feel for our city.
“Our ambition is to be one of Europe’s great small cities. And we want everyone in our region to share the benefits of a successful Perth. I’m confident this new initiative will help attract many new enthusiasts to Perth and write a new chapter in our city’s story.”