Kinross businesses are planning a street party to celebrate the end of a controversial £1 million regeneration project.
Perth and Kinross Council believes work to improve the appearance of the High Street, which began five months ago, will rejuvenate the heart of Kinross and breathe new life into the “failing town”.
Road closures and work disruption have taken a toll on businesses, which feared going under as income was hit and customer numbers plummeted.
Now they plan to bring their High Street back to life with a street party, headlined by the Red Hot Chilli Pipers, which will mark the end of the works in October.
Pamela Hunter, of award-winning butchers Hunters of Kinross, said: “We felt there was a need for an event to celebrate the newly renovated High Street being back after 17 weeks of roadworks, disruption and loss of business through less footfall and visitors into the town. The shops and businesses have all suffered, some worse than others.
“We at Hunters were going to hold our own barbecue party in the area outside our shop. It would be great if all shops and businesses could also be involved in some way.
“Hopefully this would prove to be a great day of celebration for shop keepers and businesses, as well as customers and the communities.”
The event has received approved funding from Perth and Kinross Council and assistance from Kinross-shire Local Events Organisation (KLEO).
As well as being a shop and business traders’ event, the organisers plan to have local clubs and street performers throughout the High Street, a children’s fun fair, a professional vintage pop-up make-up booth, plus much more.
Mrs Hunter added: “Local bands have been asked to join us on the day and we will have a main stage with live music which will end with the Red Hot Chilli Pipers.
“We are currently looking at applications from other local acts and community groups that wish to be involved.”
The event is scheduled to take place on Saturday October 3 between 12-4pm.
“Folks will be able to at last wander around the shops enjoying the music, activities, shop special offers and atmosphere,” Mrs Hunter said.
“We hope it will be a fantastic day for all and show that people still care about their High Streets and community.
“In the future I’m sure there will be many more events happening and we look forward to a hugely successful return of customers and business to Kinross, Loch Leven and all the attractions.”
If you have a local Kinross-shire community group that would like to take part email bouwienb@gmail.com or pamelaalexia63@gmail.com with your details and what you’d like to do.