John Swinney appeals for Blairgowrie residents to join expansion talks

Scotland’s new Deputy First Minister, John Swinney, has urged people in Blairgowrie to get involved in talks on major expansion plans for the town.

A development with up to 400 homes, a hotel and a supermarket, has been unveiled for land on the western edge of the town.

Although welcome the creation of much-needed new houses, there have been concerns that the so-called West Park development will lead to extra congestion and traffic problems.

Last night Mr Swinney, the MSP for the area, encouraged residents to take part in the on-going consultation.

“The proposed West Park development in Blairgowrie projects some ambitious plans for the town but these remain at a very early stage at the moment,” he said.

“Any development, especially one of this size, will have an impact on the existing local community so early and thorough engagement in the process is vital.

“I remain interested to see what develops from these initial plans and I would urge Blairgowrie residents to engage in any further events regarding the future of this site.”