FOLLOWING FOUR weeks of tinkering, councillors yesterday approved plans for the conversion of Perth City Hall.

Multi-million pound plans to re-invent the venue as a shopping outlet were deferred at last month’s meeting of development control committee meeting.

Despite embracing the concept from Wharfside Regeneration, it was decided further discussion was required before the details were confirmed.

Councillors yesterday voted by 4-2 to approve the plans, as long as the developers show sympathy for the Edwardian listed building’s windows.

The Architectural Heritage Society of Scotland, while accepting the necessity for the hall to present a shop-front to the surrounding streets, is keen to ensure as much of the building’s original character as possible is preserved in the plans.

The remaining two committee members moved approval without regard to the windows.

Wharfside will now push ahead with a three-level development featuring 12 retail units, a cafe and a restaurant.

Councillor Ian Miller said, “This is a new and different use for the building and it needs to be fit for purpose.

“The whole layout is, of necessity, going to be different.

“It will not retain its look as a city hall as it will no longer be a city hall.

“This development plan was picked from a number of options and I remain convinced that it is the best option.”

Councillor Michael Barnacle said it was important to take the opportunity to retain elements of the original building without wishing to jeopardise moving the development forward.

Wharfside hopes to open for business in time for Christmas 2007.