Critics have taken a dim view of multi-million-pound plans to transform Perth into a glittering “City of Light”.
Perth and Kinross Council has drawn up plans to illuminate landmark buildings, streets and darkened passageways using colourful spotlights, projections and improved street lighting.
The aim is to breathe new life into the city’s night-time economy and make Perth a more attractive place to visit and invest.
Midlothian-based Lightfolio, which worked on the world famous Kelpies sculpture, has drawn up proposals for the local authority. Designers have estimated it will cost £12 million to complete the entire project.
Councillors will be asked to back the plan next week and approve £100,000 of funding for the first phase of the scheme.
The move has been welcomed by some as a way of raising Perth’s reputation and attracting more tourists. Council boss Ian Miller said the scheme was part of Perth’s bid for City of Culture status in 2021.
But Conservative MSP Murdo Fraser has urged caution. He said: “Whilst any initiative to smarten up the city centre is welcome, I am not sure the proposed plans are exactly what Perth needs and some will question the value of spending £12 million of taxpayers money on coloured lights.”
Mr Fraser added: “The Kelpies have been incredibly successful in attracting visitors to the Falkirk area and the involvement of that same team in Perth should be welcomed. However, I would urge Perth and Kinross council to think hard before rubber stamping this plan when there are other areas of the city centre that could use this type of investment.”
Many took to social media to argue that the money would be better spent elsewhere.
Perth sports trainer Steven Bonthorne said: “Good idea, but I’d say to do this after the city centre has been developed and is thriving again. It’s a bit like talking about the decorative icing and cherry before the cake has even been baked.”
Alan Ramsay, from Perth, said: “If there’s still nothing much to do in the city centre, it doesn’t really matter how well it’s lit.”
And Dundee student Steve Mann posted on Facebook: “So, Perth is going to be turned into a giant strip club – result.”
Kairen Ruse of fashion shop Blues and Browns, an outspoken critic of the council’s city centre management, said: “Surely common sense dictates that the core problems of Perth must be addressed first.
“I can’t believe they’ll spent £12 million on fancy lights that will show up the many already crumbling buildings and empty streets.”
