Plans for a cutting-edge new development on the outskirts of Perth have been unveiled with a promise of 1,600 new homes and 1,000 jobs.
The multi-million-pound Perth West scheme will be a “showcase” project detailing how cities can become carbon-free in the future.
Project leaders say it will create high skilled jobs in the renewable energy, logistics, and research and development sectors by putting Perth at the forefront of the UK’s efforts to transition to a carbon-zero economy.
Alongside the 1,600 homes, developers will also build a primary school, hotel, leisure facilities, distribution centre and business park on land west of the Broxden Roundabout.
Described as a “national eco innovation business park and sustainable city expansion” Perth West is a joint project between Perth and Kinross Council, the John Dewar Lamberkin Trust and other partners.
Mark Richardson of planning consultants Ristol Consulting, said: “Perth is extraordinarily well placed to become a leading UK city in the way it decarbonises its economy and does it in a way that creates jobs, housing and amenities for its citizens.
“Our view, which reflects the council’s economic and social plans, is to grow the city in a way that people will get maximum benefit out of it.
“As we start to look at new ways of delivering renewable energy into our cities, and new ways of having affordable heat and electricity, and enable people to move around the cities and wider regions which are zero carbon, we need some early showcases projects.
“Working with our neighbours, the council and businesses within Perth, our aim is to put in this infrastructure so that Perth can showcase how to de-carbonise in an inclusive way.”
The project received £5 million from the Tay Cities Deal and is expected to contribute nearly £500 million pounds to the Tayside economy over the next 25 years.
Alexander Dewar, of the John Dewar Lamberkin Trust which is spearheading the development, said he was “really excited” to get the project to this stage.
Mr Dewar said: “It’s been a lot of work. It’s taken a lot of time.
“It would be fair to say throughout that time we’ve had good support from the council and council officers in terms of what were trying to achieve.
“We’ve always felt we have the political backing but technically it’s a very difficult project.
“The Scottish and UK governments are clearly committed to smart cities and the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions.
“The Perth West development envisages how integrated energy, transport and data systems will work together to support the transition to a low carbon economy.
“Perth West is uniquely placed to drive forward this inclusive, green growth agenda due to its scale, location, and collaborative delivery approach.”
The developers hope to submit a full planning application to the council by spring and want the community to share their ideas for the project.
