The Courier & Advertiser (Perth and Perthshire Edition)
Perth Concert Hall security ramped up
SNP to launch manifesto in Fair City landmark
Security has been heightened at Perth Concert Hall in advance of a major political gathering.
Extra searches and bag checks will be part of the increased security at the venue where the SNP’s manifesto will be launched by Nicola Sturgeon tomorrow.
The Tayside venue, which each year hosts dozens of major events including political party conferences and pop and classical concerts, is appealing for the public’s help with security.
Gwilym Gibbons, chief executive of Horsecross Arts, which operates the hall, said in the wake of the Manchester attack a thorough review of security procedures was carried out and he asked for the public to be “vigilant”.
A major review of security at Perth Concert Hall has been carried out following the Manchester suicide bombing.
Guided by police, the venue, which hosts many high-profile events from political party conferences to concerts, has decided to increase security.
The new measures will become apparent tomorrow when the concert hall hosts the launch of the SNP’s general election manifesto by First Minister Nicola Sturgeon.
“Following the tragic events in Manchester, we initiated a thorough review of security procedures at Perth Concert Hall,” said Gwilym Gibbons, chief executive of Horsecross Arts which operates the hall and Perth Theatre.
“As always, our priority is to ensure the well-being and security of our audiences, visitors and staff,” he said.
“We regularly audit and update our procedures and practices with advice from Police Scotland and other agencies to make sure we are as safe as we can be.
“Whilst we have not been advised of any specific risk, we ask all our customers to join us in being extra vigilant during this time of heightened security and report any suspicious behaviour or concerns to a member of our team.
“We would also ask that customers help us by not bringing bags to the venue unless necessary and be prepared for extra delays on arrival for increased bag checks.”
Murdo Fraser MSP approved of moves to increase security in Perth, saying: “Following the tragic events in Manchester, major events’ organisers will be reviewing their security procedures and what additional measures they can take to protect audiences from terror threats.
“Perth Concert Hall has played host to a number of major events over the years including political party conferences and I am sure that senior management at the hall will take time to review their protocols.”
Prior to the Manchester attack, a Courier reader who had attended a concert at the Perth venue had raised the issue of security and his observations of a potential threat have been passed to the council and the police.
Mr Gibbons also took the opportunity to express his sadness over recent events and the devastating impact it has had on so many families.
“I know that I speak for all of us at Horsecross Arts when I express how utterly shocked and saddened we are at the terrible events in Manchester,” he said.