A former solicitors’ office in Blairgowrie could be transformed into a children’s play centre.
Play Academy Ltd (Scotland) wants to develop the Whitehall Chambers building at 7 Bank Street.
It’s asking Perth and Kinross Council for permission to change the use of the building.
A statement submitted with the planning application says the Blairgowrie Play Academy would offer an occupational therapist-led service for children of all abilities from birth to age 15.
It promises “a hybrid mix of a play centre and a science centre”.
And the company adds: “We are focused on child development, nature, play, science, history and connection with the Blairgowrie community, local education and health services.”
Play Academy will create inclusive Blairgowrie venue
The Bank Street building was occupied by A & R Robertson & Black solicitors before the company was dissolved in 2022.
It’s been empty since then.
Play Academy (Scotland) is a new Blairgowrie-based company, whose directors are Vicky Myers and Carly Costello.
In their submission to the council, they say they want to create an inclusive venue that would be suitable for children and adults with additional support needs.
The centre would have a garden space.
And it would welcome visiting guests for dedicated sessions, which could include nature activities, animals and science activities.
The statement adds: “Our activities will cover the spectrum of child development including the physical, cognitive, emotional, creative, sensory, social growth and mental health and well-being of the child.”
Bank Street parking and road safety concerns
Core business hours would be 9.30am to 5.30pm seven days a week.
And the centre would take bookings and walk-in customers.
A room would also be available for the community to use to hold meetings and training courses.
The plans can be viewed on the Perth and Kinross Council planning portal here.
Members of the public have until Friday July 11 to comment.
One comment has been received so far.
It says there is “absolutely” a need for a service like Play Academy in Blairgowrie.
But it says parking is already an issue on the street and predicts the development could make things worse.
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