River taxi service a step closer after pontoon scheme backed

An ambitious water taxis project has taken a step forward with crucial backing for a new Tay pontoon.

Councillors have approved plans to earmark an area of common good land in Perth, near the Fergusson Gallery.

The pontoon will be the first stage of a major project to improve infrastructure along the river and create berths for yachts and leisure boats.

Two more pontoons are planned for Willowgate and near Elcho Castle.

The three spots already have planning consent.

Eventually, Perth and Kinross Council hopes to introduce a water taxi service that will carry visitors along the river with a possible link-up with the new V&A in Dundee.

Last year, the UK Government set aside £600,000 for the pontoons scheme.

Members of the city’s common good fund committee gave their unanimous backing to the latest proposal.

The group was told talks are ongoing with river craft operators.

Councillor Willie Wilson said: “This is an excellent suggestion and one that has been in the pipeline for a long time. I’m pleased to see that these pontoons will be removed in the winter time. I think that is sensible.”

Councillor Callum Gillies said the new riverside service would complement a £1.5 million park and ride scheme that was recently approved for land near Walnut Grove.

“They should really work to help bring people into the city,” he said.

Last week the council launched a search for designers to work on the project and plans are expected to be drawn up by the end of October.