The long-running campaign to save Perth City Hall has taken a major step forward.
Councillors will be asked next week to adopt a market hall plan as the front-runner for a new use for the listed building. It is understood the recommendation to go before the full council on Wednesday is that they accept this as the preferred bidder in the search for a new future for the mothballed hall.
The plan must still prove it has the necessary financial backing to become a commercial reality, but the prospect of councillors pursuing their previous wish to knock the building down to make way for a public square looks far less likely.
The future of the city hall was thrown into doubt in July when councillors refused to back either of two rescue plans presented to them.
After hearing presentations from the two bidders a five-star hotel proposal and the food market hall the council administration leader, Councillor Ian Miller, said he was “unconvinced about the commercial viability of the bids” and called for more time to consult.
The prospect that an end of the saga may be in sight has been welcomed by businessman Willie White whose coffee shop Willows is near the city hall.
He would prefer to see the halls sold to businessman John Bryden who wants the lesser city hall converted into student accommodation and the main hall reopened for public use but he is pleased that demolition seems unlikely.
“It is good news as long as there is a final resolution,” he said. “Doing nothing is not an option.”
An architectural watchdog warned councillors they will be in the international spotlight when they make their decision.
On Wednesday it will be recommended they take forward the market hall plan, but campaigners fear councillors could reject this and again pursue demolition, to make way for a public square.
Neil Baxter, secretary of the Royal Incorporation of Architects in Scotland (RIAS), cautioned that the council’s decision will be scrutinised closely, as will Historic Scotland Environment’s role if the new heritage body is subsequently approached to give the green light for demolition.
A long-time opponent of demolition, the RIAS has added its voice to those including the Scottish Civic Trust questioning why the council has refused to offer up the city hall for sale, only offering a long-term lease, which has attracted proposals for a luxury hotel and an indoor food market.
He was adamant that whatever is decided, demolition must not be an option.
“Quite rightly, there has been an international outcry,” said Mr Baxter of this possible course of action. “We have received correspondence from all over the world.”