Perth and Kinross Council has moved to allay fears that three city centre roads could be closed for 18 months.
Officials said that while they have applied for an order covering the next year and a half, full closures will only be used when absolutely necessary.
The proposals cover Mill Street, Bridge Lane and Skinnergate and are to allow work on Perth Theatre, as well as an upgrade of the pavements and roads. A number of historic vennels are also covered in the plans.
A spokeswoman for Perth and Kinross Council said the work was a “key part” of plans to ensure the city’s cultural development.
She said: “It is essential that Perth and Kinross Council is able to deliver a fully considered vision for the enhancement of Mill Street and its connected vennels.
“Investment in our cultural facilities and attractions including Perth Theatre are a key part of the council’s plans to regenerate the city centre.
“A redeveloped theatre will act as a catalyst for further developments and the council is fully committed to delivering this.
“The traffic restrictions are being put in place to allow the essential development works to Perth Theatre and for the public realm works on Mill Street.
“All of the road traffic orders are valid for 18 months to cover the requirements of the contracts. The orders will only be used as and when required over this period.
“The order in relation to Perth Theatre works begins in February and will run until late 2017. The main disruption will be footway closures.
“The order for the public realm works will not begin until summer 2016 and will last for approximately six months. This will involve some road and lane closures.
“The council will ensure road users and local businesses are fully informed of the closures, and alternative routes in advance of them taking effect.”
She added that specific details of the closures are yet to be decided.
The news was welcomed by local councillor Heather Stewart.
She said: “It would appear that although the works may take around 18 months, full closure of Mill Street will only take place over four weeks of that period and during that four weeks I am delighted to report that people who need to use the loading bay at the back of Marks & Spencer will still be able to do so as access will be from Kinnoull Street.”