Stone’s destiny is a return to Perth

Perth’s attempt to win recognition as the City of Culture 2021 may have ended sadly without reaching the shortlist stage, but groundwork for the Fair City’s improvement was laid and it is gratifying to see it continue apace.

The city hall finally has a firm future under plans being taken forward by internationally-renowned firm Mecanoo and, it seems, a centrepiece for the project could be secured.

The return of the Stone of Scone has been a long-held ambition for city fathers and the introduction of design firm Metaphor into the equation is a firm statement of intent in making that a reality.

Since Perth and Kinross Council first announced its intention to lobby for the ancient artefact’s return, officers have tried to dampen expectation.

They do not want to be seen to have made promises which could not, ultimately, be kept.

However, it is the type of ambitious project which should be celebrated.

There is no good reason the stone should be kept in Edinburgh – a city awash with world-famous tourist attractions – and Perth’s need is greater.

A groundswell of public backing could be enough to ensure the powers-that-be give the Fair City – and wider Tayside – just the boost it needs at a critical point for it future prosperity.