Study shows city is flourishing

Perth’s growing reputation as a cultural and business hub has made it a flourishing location for traditional self-catering accommodation, according to the industry’s trade body.

An economic impact study by the Association of Scotland’s Self-Caterers (ASSC) has revealed the growing popularity of the traditional self-catering sector within the nation’s cities.

Perth’s raft of developments, from its bid to become City of Culture 2021 to the development of Perth City Hall as a major visitor attraction, and the success of attractions such as Scone Palace and Perth Racecourse, have made the Fair City a burgeoning location for self-catering apartments. ASSC member TS Holiday Lets, who have a range of apartments and cottages across Scotland and the UK, first took on property in Perth.

Over the past five years TS Holiday Lets has seen their rental revenue from Perth skyrocket by more than 500%.

In 2012, the value of their Perth bookings was £17,000 and by 2016 their portfolio revenue had risen to £106,000.

TS Holiday Lets managing director Tara Scott said: “When we first started letting out apartments in Perth the city wasn’t a particularly popular choice for self-catering.

“However, in the last two to three years that has really changed. Now people are starting to realise that the city offers a great central base for tourists, and also has many conferences and events.”