Multi-million-pound plan for former Perth hospital is delayed

Councillors have stalled making a decision on controversial plans to redevelop an old psychiatric hospital in Perth.

Rivertree Residential wants to transform the former Murray Royal building into 58 flats, with a further 70 new-build houses in the grounds.

However, the multi-millionpound proposals have come up against opposition from local residents and council officers.

Planning applications were recommended for refusal, due to concerns about the potential impact on roads.

Members of Perth and Kinross Council’s planning and development management committee agreed to visit the site before making a final decision.

Lib Dem councillor Willie Wilson said: “This is one of the most significant sites in Perth. The main building is stunning.

“We have a stand-off with the developer about traffic, and that matter needs further discussion.”

An agent for the developers said Rivertree was “very disappointed” by planners’ recommendation to refuse the development.

“The buildings are significantly deteriorating, with the Gilgal building now ruinous,” he said.

“There is indeed a pressing need to secure the future of the site and its nationally important listed buildings.

“The new housing is required to provide access to the funds needed for the refurbishment of the listed buildings, which is extremely costly.

Rivertree Residential cannot expose themselves to a significant refurbishment cost unless they have certainty of the new-build element coming forward in a realistic and viable timescale.”

Development could be phased in over several years, to help ease concerns about congestion.

Objector Graham Fleming said Rivertree’s transport assessment was flawed.

“Whilst we must look for a positive future for the old hospital buildings, we must also ensure we don’t feel rushed into a bad decision,” he said.