By Richard Burdge

A NEW group dedicated to promoting tourism in the Pitlochry area has been launched.

“The Pitlochry Partnership will provide an open forum for all organisations, service providers, businesses and individuals to explore opportunities and develop strategies to promote the unique qualities of the area as a tourism destination, a vibrant environment for business and an agreeable community to live in or visit,” said partnership chairman Professor Ian Brown.

The recent launch reception in Pitlochry Festival Theatre was addressed by John Swinney, the SNP Holyrood candidate for North Perthshire, who said, “The establishment of the partnership is a much needed and significant development in determining the future wellbeing of the community as a whole.

“By bringing together all the different organisations and businesses in the area they can adopt an integrated approach to setting priorities and achieving common objectives.”

Also attending the event were Nikki Axford, vice-chairperson of Scottish Enterprise Tayside, and Eleanor Howie, representing Perth and Kinross Council, who encouraged the community to participate fully in the group’s activities.

As part of the evening’s celebration a website www.pitlochry.org was unveiled and was well received by the audience.

The website, which will be further developed in the future, will provide comprehensive information for visitors and residents.

The launch and the initial development phase of the Pitlochry Partnership is partly funded by a grant from the Scottish Arts Council under Awards For All.

Further details about the Pitlochry Partnership or the new website can be obtained from Dennys Campbell, project manager at info@pitlochry.org or on (01796) 484600.