Two influential conservation groups this week added their voices to the campaign to save Perth City Hall.
In the wake of a decision by councillors to back plans for demolition of the building to replace it with a civic square, SAVE Britain’s Heritage and the Scottish Civic Trust waded into the row.
Widely regarded as Britain’s leading heritage conservation organisation, SAVE is calling on the Scottish Government to hold a public inquiry into the proposed demolition of the hall.
The final decision rests with Historic Scotland, which will make a recommendation to ministers, and campaigners are keen to see demolition is rejected.
Part of the town’s fabric for 100 years, the building is regarded with nostalgic affection by many residents.
SAVE Britain’s Heritage is adamant the destruction of the B-listed Edwardian hall would be a huge mistake.
In a letter to Historic Scotland, SAVE described the city as being of ”national importance” and claimed the decision by the council had been taken without proper consideration.
The Scottish Civic Trust is also far from convinced about the need for demolition.
”The trust would suggest that there is a lack of robust evidence to demonstrate beyond doubt that there are no other uses for the building which could provide similar or greater benefits whilst retaining the building,” said its director, John Pelan.
The council’s depute chief executive, Jim Irons, presented the arguments for demolition at last week’s council meeting, claiming a new square would provide an improved setting for St John’s Kirk, Perth’s most historic building.