A controversial plan to give a rundown Perth building a radical makeover has been withdrawn.
Plans for the site at Main Street/West Bridge Street had been lodged with Perth and Kinross Council for what had been described as “the first stage” of an urban renewal process.
Yesterday residents said they had received a letter from the council stating that the application had been withdrawn.
Award-winning architect Fergus Purdie explained that a review of the ambitious proposal was being carried out but he said very much hoped a fresh plan would be forthcoming, to breathe new life into Bridgend.
When first unveiled, the juxtaposition of an ultra-modern design at the rear of a tradition building alongside the historic Perth Bridge split opinion.
While the proposal had been heralded by the developers as delivering a “combination of regeneration, conservation and economic development” in an area that is badly in need of investment”, one detractor likened it to “an oil rig on top of a Georgian building”.
A petition opposing the move was launched, amid claims that, if it proceeded, the building would damage local businesses.
Bridgend resident Stuart Glencorse, who lives opposite the development site, was among those to receive a letter stating the plan had been withdrawn.
“I am relieved,” said Mr Glencorse, who said he still hoped a new plan would come forward, as he agreed the area badly needs investment. He said he would be supportive of something sympathetic to the existing building and the important riverside location.
At the time the design was unveiled, the developers said they had received “encouraging responses” from Bridgend, Gannochy and Kinnoull Community Council, Perth Civic Trust and Perth Left Bank Community Development Trust for the proposals.
A design statement issued by Fergus Purdie architects, on behalf of the developer, said: “The project will set a high standard of urbanism and architecture as an example of high and city-based residential accommodation in the city of Perth.
“The general condition of the property has clearly become dilapidated, neglected and run down.
“There is also a derelict external space located within a vacant back land area facing the river Tay. The back land elevation, in particular, is in a very poor condition.”
The design statement said if the proposal is approved there are other opportunities for further improvements in the area, including redeveloping the redundant old bakery in the back land area.
Mr Purdie explained the current status of the plans, saying: “I can confirm that the application has been withdrawn at this stage while we review the proposals.
“Although the design may have split opinions, we have had tremendous support from various parties and members of the public who believe in the positive contribution that this unique project would offer Bridgend and Perth’s city status.
“The current lack of action and implementation of any forward-thinking strategy for this area exemplifies the urgent need to address a ‘new vision’ for Bridgend and without a significant amount of investment, it would only continue to deteriorate (a prime example: the ongoing saga of East Bridge Street).
“Developing something imaginative and forward-thinking would make a significant contribution to redress its ongoing decline. At this stage the practice and client are working closely with interested parties to continue moving the project forward in a positive way to benefit Bridgend and the community.”