Perth and Kinross status ‘relief’

Perth and Kinross’s worst fears weren’t realised after it remained in Tier 2, despite a plea by NHS Tayside to put it into Tier 3.

NHS Tayside argued it would be easier to control the virus with a blanket approach across the region.

Perth and Kinross Council leader Murray Lyle, who admitted he was “livid” at the prospect of going into Tier 3, said: “We put up a robust and coherent case to remain below Tier 3, and I’m grateful that the decision-makers took that on board and came back with what I believe is the right decision.”

Stephen Leckie, chief executive of Crieff Hydro hotels, said: “We understand that the Scottish Government has a tightrope to walk when it comes to allocating tiers and we are grateful that it has taken the decision to not group Perth and Kinross with other regions who are unfortunately experiencing higher levels of Covid infections.”

Mr Leckie, who is president of Perthshire Chamber of Commerce, added: “We call on the Scottish Government to urgently provide a strengthened support package that our businesses can access quickly and easily.”

Perth businesswoman Dawn Fuge, who co-chairs the Perth Traders Association, said: “Anybody, anywhere in Perth and Kinross who is able to continue trading will be breathing a sigh of relief.”

Eve Taylor, general manager at Perth’s Twa Tams pub/restaurant, said: “It’s not easy to run a pub when you can’t sell alcohol inside but this seems to be a good balance between keeping businesses open and keeping people safe.”

Perthshire North MSP John Swinney said: “The fact that our neighbours in Dundee have been placed in Tier 3 demonstrates the need for vigilance and care, especially as we depend on acute hospital services in the city of Dundee.”