Praise from all quarters for the actions of emergency services

Emergency crews were praised for their swift response to the early-morning incident.

Depute First Minister and local MSP John Swinney said: “The events at Atholl Street have clearly caused a lot of distress to residents and I hope the resident who has been injured makes a full, and quick recovery.

“I would also like to thank the emergency services for their swift and effective intervention in ensuring the safety of all residents.

“Members of the public will have been inconvenienced by what has happened, but I hope that can be kept to a minimum following the conclusion of the necessary inspections that are taking place.”

Perth and North Perthshire MP Pete Wishart said his thoughts were with the injured woman and her family. “I understand that the emergency services were very quick to respond and that gas was quickly isolated to ensure the safety of others in the area,” he said.

“I would like to pay thanks to those who were involved in the immediate response and those who will be involved in the coming days to ensure the safety of the site.”

Perth City Centre councillor Peter Barrett said: “My first and foremost concerns are for the residents.”

He added: “The Fire and Rescue Service evacuated all other residents safely which comes as a great relief.

“I immediately contacted the council’s homeless team to ensure that support is available for any of the affected residents who need temporary accommodation.”

Mr Barrett said: “I was reassured that the team were already liaising with the council’s emergency planning team to ensure that help is available and that Building Control staff were on site to assess the building.”

The Fire and Rescue Service evacuated all other residents safely which comes as a great relief. COUNCILLOR PETER BARRETT