Perth bid to attract global funds boost

New group calls on international developers to invest in city

A global investment campaign launched by the UK Government could bring thousands of new jobs to Perth.

Unveiled before an audience of influential businessmen and women at Cannes, the new Scottish Investment Portfolio calls for international developers to invest in and get involved with the city’s biggest ever infrastructure project.

The document reveals plans for a new business park which could transform the city into a hub for innovative, green technology.

The estate is part of the £140 million Perth West development, a massive expansion of around 3,700 homes off the A9.

Local Lib Dem councillor Peter Barrett said Perth’s inclusion in the portfolio is a “major coup” for the city.

The UK Government has launched an international drive to bring thousands of new jobs to Perth.

Developers from across the globe are being urged to get on board with the city’s biggest ever infrastructure project.

Council bosses hope to secure big-name investment in a new “Scottish Eco Innovation” business park, which has been unveiled as part of the £140 million West Perth development.

The estate, earmarked for land off the A9, has been included in the Department for International Trade’s ambitious Scottish Investment Portfolio. The document aims to secure interest for the West Perth initiative, as well as seven other projects in the central belt and Aberdeen.

The campaign was launched before an audience at Cannes, France, during the MIPIM real estate conference. The event gathers some of the most influential players in the international property industry.

Perth and Kinross Council says the new business park will focus on “green innovation technologies for urban living” and will include a hotel, leisure complex, industrial facilities and a distribution centre.

The wider West Perth project, which is part of the council’s revised local development plan, could include around 3,700 houses. The land has been unlocked thanks to £35m of roadworks, including a new A9/A85 junction.

Local authority boss Murray Lyle said: “Perth is a rapidly growing city and there is a proven demand for residential and industrial land to help feed that growth.

“The significant investment this council has made in developing the road network on the western boundary of the city, and in locating our new secondary school within that area, has unlocked the potential of this area of land.

Investment in Perth West will create fantastic opportunities for growth to improve jobs, quality of life and the local economy. MURRAY LYLE

“Investment in Perth West will create fantastic opportunities for growth to improve jobs, quality of life and the local economy. It’ s a great time to invest in Perth .”

Support for the West Perth project has been welcomed by councillors from across the chamber.

Peter Barrett, leader of the Liberal Democrats group, said: “Having the Perth West development site included within the Scottish Investment Portfolio is a major coup for the area.

“With the Department for International Trade’s backing, the site can be marketed on a much bigger platform, raising the profile of this exciting investment opportunity and bringing the whole of Perth and Kinross to the attention of global investors.”

Councillor Dave Doogan, leader of the SNP opposition, said: “Perth’s location at the heart of Scotland’s transport network makes this a very appealing location for business investment.

“With a focus on green technology to support Scotland’s growing urban areas, the business park will offer space for business development and expansion in the booming industry.”

The MIPIM conference has proved successful for Perth in the past, helping secure investment in the £30m retail and cinema complex at Thimblerow.