The times of Perth ’s multi-floored industrial buildings are previous and utilizing higher flooring for studios is the best way ahead, reckons councillor Peter Barrett.
The Perth Metropolis Centre Lib Dem councillor was requested how he felt in regards to the continued emptiness of Debenhams in Perth Excessive Avenue.
Final week, a brilliant new cafe, Bob and Berts, opened close by at avenue degree and the brand new begin solely attracts additional consideration to the vacancy that sits reverse.
The previous Debenhams unit, which closed completely final yr, stays vacant.
Cllr Barrett feels “creativity” and “creativeness” is required to make sure a big constructing of this sort is put again into use for the advantage of the area people.
“Our method to making sure that the Excessive Avenue and metropolis centre are vibrant enticing locations requires creativity, creativeness and useful resource,” he defined to the Perthshire Advertiser.
“The Debenhams constructing is a living proof and, like the previous McEwen's and Lakeland buildings, giant multi-floor retail use shouldn't be a probable possibility.
“Blended use, combining suitably sized floor flooring industrial or retail items with residential lodging on the higher flooring has extra potential.
“It can additionally carry extra individuals into the town centre and subsequently extra clients.
“Once you take a look at how the enhancements to St Paul’s has kick-started enhancements to the encircling retailers and funding in neighbouring industrial workplace house, you may see an instance of what might be achieved.”
Cllr Barrett was happy to see espresso and meals chain Bob and Berts tackle a Excessive Avenue unit.
“I haven’t been in but, however it's nice to see Bob and Berts occupying a distinguished place and vital intersection of the Excessive Avenue which I hope will assist drive footfall within the metropolis centre,” Cllr Barrett mentioned.
“I want Bob and Berts all the perfect of their new enterprise. Nonetheless, when you elevate your eyes upwards to the flats and companies above, there are issues with the constructing: damp and spalling masonry.
“Vegetation is rising out of the mortar joints at prime flooring ranges, there are additionally severe drainage points within the secret gutter behind the balustrade.
“I'm urgent the council to take an lively lead on the repairs required and pursuing a Tenancy Administration Scheme method if that's what is required.”
A PKC spokesperson mentioned: “We need to make Perth an awesome place for companies, and funding such because the opening of Bob and Berts is a superb vote of confidence within the metropolis centre and the work being undertaken. The brand new museum at metropolis corridor will carry tens of 1000's of tourists to the town, and our financial growth employees proceed to help new and present enterprise in Perth, whether or not they're on the lookout for premises or have already got an acceptable base.”