Councillors say situation at block is‘unacceptable’

Perth City Centre councillors have told the PA it is unacceptable that Pomarium residents are living in fear.

Councillor Peter Barrett:“The council and the police are treating these incidents with the utmost seriousness and urgency.

“The health and safety of residents is of paramount importance to me and I know that the same level of concern is shared by the whole council housing team.”

Speaking about the most recent fire

Cllr Barrett added:“I can reassure residents that the bin-store fire was extinguished almost as soon as it started.

“That was a direct consequence of the effective fire detection and sprinkler systems installed.

“The system was recommissioned by engineers on site after every activation. The council has responded swiftly to residents’concerns with a team in attendance after each fire and 24/7 site security in place.”

Councillor Eric Drysdale said:“The situation is obviously very concerning and worrying for residents, and I encourage anyone with information on who may be responsible for any of these recent incidents to either contact Police Scotland on 101, or report information to CrimeStoppers on 0800 555 111 anonymously if preferred.

“Of course, if anyone should witness any further attempted arson being committed, they should not hesitate to phone 999 at the time.

“In the meantime, I understand that PKC housing staff are working closely with residents and are also taking urgent steps to change arrangements for refuse disposal at Pomarium.

“I’m also very pleased to learn of the close inter-agency work under way with Scottish Fire and Rescue Service and Police Scotland and that a positive line of enquiry is being pursued.”

Fellow SNP councillor Andrew Parrott backed what Cllr Drysdale said, adding:“It must be very distressing for the residents.”

He went on:“I believe council staff and SFRS are doing all they can to support residents and I hope that the ongoing police investigations bear fruit.”