£5m Levelling Up cash is welcome boost for Perth

In these present times we are all very aware that politics is becoming increasingly divisive.

This is not only unpleasant for politicians, but it is clearly disillusioning many voters within the political process. That is why it is so important to get good news stories in the headlines, in between all of the negativity.

Readers will know that efforts have been ongoing to seek new investment in Scotland’s towns and cities, principally, in this area with the Tay Cities Deal, but also with various other initiatives whether it’s the funding for the new Perth Museum and the new Tay Crossing.

Needless to say, there is plenty demand for money to support other projects which is why it was good to see the UK Government’s £5million boost to Perth which was announced in the Budget.

These kind of grants come about when the different political parties work together for the good of their local community.

Former council leader Murray Lyle did this in his time and Grant Laing has now done the same.

MSPS Murdo Fraser, John Swinney and myself have supported him as has Pete Wishart as MP and Westminster Candidate Luke Graham.

The money has not yet been allocated and it is now up to Perth and Kinross Council, hopefully in consultation with local groups, businesses and elected officials, to decide how it is spent.

There is certainly no shortage of ideas that Fair City residents would hope for it to be spent on; with a struggling high street and threats facing the future of services provided at Dewars.

Political analysts have been saying that the upcoming general election will be won on the positive vision for the economy that parties can put forward to the electorate.

The feedback from voters is that they want to see potholes mended (and there are plenty of them these days!) and bus services retained, they want to see crucial facilities like libraries and swimming pools remain open and they want a concentration on secure jobs and new investment.

Perth City should be well placed to be at the forefront of investment and innovation but this can only happen if governments at all levels work together to deliver what the public want.

The Chancellor’s £5m boost is testimony to the cross-party approach of Perthshire politicians and what can be achieved when all of our governments – local, devolved and national – work together for the benefit of our local communities.

I look forward to seeing the positive impact this investment will deliver for Perth.