The Dundee Institute of Architects (DIA) has added its voice to those opposing plans to demolish the City Hall in Perth.
DIA president Fraser Middleton argued that if proposals put forward by Perth and Kinross Council get the green light, this would be “wanton destruction” and a “great architectural, historical and cultural loss” to the town.
The contentious subject has led to split opinions on the future of the Edwardian building, with the council favouring demolition and replacing it with a civic square.
An alternative plan has been put forward by Perth City Centre Campaign (PCCC), which retains the front section of the hall.
Mr Middleton said his members felt Perth City Hall has “significant architectural merit and irreplaceable townscape value.”
“We anticipate that significant subsequent regret would be experienced should the current proposals be pursued,” he said. “We contend that the proposals do not produce anything better in either architectural or planning terms and this reason alone should be sufficient for refusal of this scheme.”
He continued, “We accept that the current building in its entirety may no longer be functionally relevant. We also realise that it is a challenge financially for the council to maintain such a property.
“However, this should not be the reason for the wanton destruction of such a fine example of Edwardian architecture. It is a prominently located listed building and one of relatively few which contribute so importantly to the townscape and attractive vistas in the heart of the town.
“We feel that Perth owes it to itself to retain its best historical architecture and to use it, where relevant, to provide a catalyst to encourage regeneration and an attractive visual contribution within the urban environment.
“A large anonymous, hard, square such as the one proposed does not address a significant number of the current challenges facing Perth town centre. To create a large anonymous open space is certainly not a worthwhile alternative to the current attractive Beaux Arts facade of City Hall.”
Perth and Kinross Council leader Councillor Ian Miller said, “This letter is an objection to the planning application and will be considered as part of the normal planning process.
“Our plans to create a great new city square in Perth have already received widespread public support and I and fellow councillors remain committed to doing all we can to realise that ambition and aspiration.”