Council chief defends Perth High Street retail choices

A leading councillor has claimed the choice of retail shops in Perth is improving month on month despite statistics that suggest otherwise.

John Kellas, Perth and Kinross Council’s enterprise and infrastructure committee convener, was reacting to figures produced by Price Waterhouse Coopers which claimed that 12 retailers in Perth have closed their doors permanently between January and July this year, with only eight new businesses opening up in their place.

While Mr Kellas admits there “will always be setbacks”, he believes the local authority have a “positive programme of change” that will lead to benefits for retailers and shoppers alike.

“I think it is always wise not to look at any individual figure in isolation but look at the contributions that will secure a long-term benefit for Perth City and Perth and Kinross as a whole,” he said.

“The council works closely with Perth Traders Association, which represents the city centre retail community, to continue to grow the support available to businesses within Perth city centre.

“Perth and Kinross Council is the only council in Scotland to have used the powers given to councils by the Scottish Government to provide rates relief support, and a budget of £600,000 of support has been created.

“This rates relief has been warmly welcomed by Perth Traders Association and other business groups. The council have also committed to a programme of investment in improvements to the public realm and there has also been a commitment of £500,000 by the council for additional marketing of the city.”