A historic building that has been blighted by fire-raisers and vandals is set to make way for much-needed affordable housing.
The former offices of the Scottish Executive Agriculture and Fisheries Department in Jeanfield Road in Perth have been earmarked for demolition.
Created as the home of the Fechney Industrial School for Girls in the late 19th century, the building has lain empty for a number of years, falling into a state of disrepair.
Now, Hillcrest Housing Association and Ryven Ltd have joined forces to redevelop the site and provide 40 new flats.
The properties will be built in two phases, with the first featuring eight two-bedroom and 16 one-bedroom units, while the second will consists of 16 two-bedroom flats. The proposals also include 41 parking spaces within the 0.5-hectare site.
Although they have been met with some consternation from local residents, particularly regarding loss of privacy and an increase in traffic, the plans have been welcomed by Councillor Alexander Stewart, who represents the Perth City South ward.
He told The Courier that it will provide vital accommodation for those who cannot afford to get on the property ladder or pay high private rents.
“Flatted accommodation is what people are looking for and this won’t been too expensive,” he said. I think there is a demand for it and it will help attract more people to live and work in the city itself, which will generate more income.
“The more we can do to regenerate the area, the better and housing like this is in high demand.”
Mr Stewart also revealed he was happy to see a use finally being found for the redundant building.
He continued: “We’ve had to put up with this for a number of years and it’s become an eyesore.
“At least now it will have a new lease of life and it is the perfect location for housing because it’s not far from the city centre or shops. There’s a lot of opportunity for it.
“I do welcome getting rid of and eyesore and meeting the demand for housing.”
Although it has long been regarded as a blight on the landscape, the building has played a significant role in Perth’s history. As well as being the site of the Fechney Industrial School for Girls, it also has links to a 15th-century palace.
A report by Perth and Kinross Heritage Trust unveiled the secrets of the former offices, latterly known as Jeanfield House. It states that the Carmelite Friary of Tullium is known to have survived to the south of the development site.
Heritage officer Sarah Malone said: “Current excavations on the site of Normand Joiners, Riggs Road, have revealed the friary church and associated ranges; however, these buildings are further to the west than anticipated.
“Medieval records suggest a 15th-century palace for the Bishops of Dunkeld was located at the friary and this part of the complex has not been located as yet.
“There is the potential that remains associated with the friary could survive within the development site.”
She recommended an archaeological evaluation be carried out to establish whether or not there are any historically-significant discoveries still to be made.