Perthshire’s biggest town is poised for a huge economic boost, thanks to a local water services firm.
Castle Water, based on the edge of Blairgowrie, has struck a deal for expansion, creating 100 new jobs.
The company has now revealed plans to take-over an old antiques centre in the town centre, a move which is expected to create spin-off benefit for local traders.
Perthshire North MSP John Swinney was briefed on the expansion plan when he visited the company’s headquarters at Craighall Castle.
The Deputy First Minister said: “This is a fantastically welcome expansion of an important business in Blairgowire.
“The growth of Castle Water in a relatively short space of time has brought a huge amount of new economic activity to town.
“This further expansion is going to locate a significant number of new jobs right in the town centre and this will have a great impact, increasing footfall and economic activity.”
He said: “I’m absolutely delighted this development has taken place and it gives Blairgowrie a tremendous amount to be optimistic about for years to come.”
The new jobs follow an agreement between the company and Thames Water, which will see retail activities and customer services for 250,000 business clients transferred across in April 17.
Castle Water, which launched just two years ago, has about 45 staff at three locations in and around the town, including 10 at the new office, next to Cargill’s Restaurant on Lower Mill Street.
CEO John Reynolds said: “Everyone said to me: How are you going to get the staff you need in Blairgowrie?
“But look at the demographics. Anyone who is the north side of Perth or Dundee can work here. I think Blairgowrie undersells itself. You’ve got an absolutely wonderful work-life balance here.”
He said: “Towns like Blairgowrie can sustain very interesting businesses. It doesn’t all have to go to big cities.”
Castle Water supplies customer service on behalf of Portsmouth Water, but also reaches thousands of clients across Scotland, where the market has been deregulated since 2008.
Castle Water provides tailored services and advice across a range of industries, including manufacturing, agriculture, education, leisure and hospitality, public sector and infrastructure.
