An impasse which threatened to scupper a Perth project, potentially placing hundreds of jobs at risk, has been resolved.
SEPA and Perth and Kinross Council found themselves at loggerheads over a planned commercial development in the city’s North Muirton, meaning the only course of action was for the matter to be referred to the Scottish Government for resolution.
The environmental protection agency had maintained the Arran Road proposal would be at risk of flooding while the council claimed it would be protected by the city’s flood defence system.
At risk were between 90 and 650 jobs depending on who occupied the units, said the council.
Now the green light has been given for the eight commercial units off Arran Road to be constructed after SEPA withdrew its objection.
“Following detailed discussion I am pleased to see that SEPA has been able to agree the council position which was confirmed at the last development management committee.,” said Councillor John Kellas, convener of enterprise and infrastructure.
“This makes sense going forward and will allow much-needed business units to proceed, offering employment opportunities and it fits with the local development plan.
“Of course every future application will have to be assessed on its merits and require all risks to be taken into account.
“I look forward to seeing progress being made as it shows clearly that Perth is a great place to locate and grow businesses.”
Key to SEPA’s objection was that they regarded the site as “greenfield” or undeveloped land, but they have been persuaded by the council that it can be classed as “brownfield”, allowing them to withdraw their objection.
The council’s position was that the risk of flooding had been countered by the multi-million flood defences that were constructed along the Tay after the city suffered catastrophic flooding of 1993.
