More than 500 jobs could be created on land on Perth’s western edge which has just been released for development.
The site, which will be released in two phases, sits between the M90 and the Glasgow Road in Perth and is seen as a vital component in building the city’s economy over the coming decade.
Enterprise and infrastructure committee convener Councillor John Kellas was in no doubt about the significance of the site if the growing population is to be matched by employment opportunities.
“This announcement is signalling the start of a bright future for the city,” said Mr Kellas.
The first phase, which is adjacent to the existing commercial development with Esso, McDonald’s, Harvester and hotel operators Travelodge, extends from the Broxden roundabout along the eastbound M90 to the Broxden park and ride site. Phase two is to the east of the park and ride, with both sites to be linked by a new access road.
To the north of the development sites office suites have recently been let at Broxden House on Lamberkine Drive.
Some 3,500 sq ft has been let to Mouchel, the infrastructure and business services group which last year was jointly awarded (with Atkins) the final £40 million design contract for the Scottish Government A9 dualling programme.
The second office extends to 7,500 sq ft and has been let to Persimmon Homes who recently announced major growth plans.
The letting represents the largest office deal in the city in the past three years and the Perth base will be the company’s headquarters for the north of Scotland.
In further positive news for the area, commercial agents Bidwells have also announced that the first floor office space at Merlin House (formerly the Cherrybank Gardens visitor centre) on nearby Necessity Brae is now “under offer” on behalf of the owners, engineering consultancy Merlin ERD who occupy the ground floor.
With the recent take-up of Grade A offices at Broxden and no other commercial site development since 2010, there is very limited supply of modern office space available in Perth.”