Dundee University experts share vision of Crieff's future
An overhaul of Crieff High Street could radically raise the town's fortunes, a new study has determined.
- Published in the Courier : 10.02.12
- Published online : 11.02.12 @ 12.19pm
Students and experts from Dundee University were commissioned by Crieff and Upper Strathearn partnership to complete a report on improvements.
The document has determined Crieff is already in a strong position thanks to its location and existing infrastructure but could do better.
It states: ''Crieff has assets which can be enhanced to work in its favour. The town already has the ingredients of sufficient scale, good housing, accessible services and a sought-after environment which attracts visitors and incomers as residents.
''To replace a shrinking element of general retailing on the High Street, the 'central place' of the old town must be reconceived to attract additional spending visitors.
''There is already a good core of local services providers in the High Street area serving the visitor market. Nonetheless, Crieff's attractiveness for the visitor can be enhanced.''
The report suggests a range of improvements to upgrade the historic High Street.
It says: ''Additional enterprises exploiting niches in Crieff can be attracted to operate from shop-front premises within the High Street/King Street/Comrie Street. These include boutiques, perfumeries, specialist book sellers, etc.
''Close to the High Street, there is property that can accommodate other visitor-related activities, for example, the vacant former supermarket property at Church Street/Pittenzie Street would appear suitable as a venue for centre selling antique and vintage items.
''However, private entrepreneurs need to have the confidence to invest in such enterprises and actions to enhance the attraction of the High Street and its environs can make a useful contribution.''
An improved tourist information centre is needed and there is also acknowledgement of the requirement to resolve issues with parking and the dangerous nature of the High Street.
CUSP secretary John Champion said: ''The study has confirmed many of the things Crieff residents already know and are seeking action over.
''That in itself is worthwhile as it confirms people's worries about traffic, parking, a town centre in need of re-painting and refurbishment are shared by visitors to the town.
''Excellent ideas are mooted about pedestrianising parts of the town and these will provide food for thought for local residents, business owners and the planning authorities.''
09.31pm - 11.02.2012 Dan - Dundee, Scotland Report This
'Dundee' University should be burning the midnight oil finding a way of helping the High Street of the City whose name it uses.
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