Funding is in place for the demolition of Perth City Hall and the creation of a civic square, councillors have been told.
Just under £4m has been set aside from Perth and Kinross Council’s composite capital budget 2011-2015 and the final decision on the building’s future now rests with Scottish ministers, advised by Historic Scotland.
Although the development control committee has given the green light for the city hall to be torn down, a report must go before ministers before work can begin.
On Wednesday, the strategic policy and resources committee discussed plans for the site, with several stating their desire to ”get on with it”.
Convener Ian Miller said: ”This has been a long-running affair that has seen various proposals come and go over the years. The sense I get from the general public is that we should get on with it and reach a final position as soon as possible.”
He added: ”I would remind members that consultation has been carried out on the various options and the outcome of that was clear support for the option now being pursued. Inevitably, there has been opposition to that from some sections of the community.”
Mr Miller said: ”I understand that reaction, but the facts are that no one has been able to come forward with a plan that is financially viable. One thing we should all be careful of is creating a situation that becomes a financial liability to the council.”
Around £3.282 million has budgeted for creating the public square on the site of city hall and it is hoped that this will be used for various events, including farmers’ markets and concerts.
Assurance was sought that these funds would cover any extra costs, such as work slowing down because of archaeological issues.
Depute chief executive Jim Irons told the committee the cash allows for any unforeseen circumstances and that contingency plans are in place.
Councillor Willie Wilson welcomed the paper, telling his colleagues that the only mistake the council had made was taking so long to make a final decision on the future of the building.
He said: ”If ever there was a time for leadership, it is now. If ever there was a time for courage and determination, it is now.”
He added: ”I think we have got it right it is not about tearing down a building which has seen its day, but creating a civic space.”