The owner of a derelict hotel in Perth which collapsed in on itself is working on plans to redevelop the site after the latest planning proposal fell through.
The White Horse Inn on North William Street has been abandoned since 2013 when a fire ripped through the building, creating an eyesore that has blighted the area.
In September plans were submitted to Perth and Kinross Council by Aberkell Developments to demolish the building and erect 12 flats on the site.
However last month these plans were suddenly withdrawn after the roof of the building collapsed in on itself forcing nearby residents to flee their homes.
Steve Mulgrew, owner of Aberkell Developments, told The Courier his company was forced to withdraw the proposal after the collapsed roof damaged neighbouring homes.
The developer, who never owned the site, believes that due to any legal issues arising from the damage it would take months, possibly years, before he was able to begin work on the hotel.
He said: “The most problematic thing for us was the building had fell at the side and damaged the adjoining building
“By the time that would have been dealt with it would have been a year-and-a-half.
“It got too complicated. It was going to take too long and we have a few things going on in Dundee.
“It’s a pity because it’s a good wee site. And to be fair to Perth and Kinross Council they were very keen to get it developed.”
Mr Mulgrew said his company would still be keen on the site if it became available again in the future.
However, following the latest setback, the building’s owner, Derek Petterson, looks likely to take matters into his own hands.
The businessman, who owns McLeod Glaziers, has began work on the building to take it off the dangerous buildings register.
Mr Petterson said: “I am working with my architect now on another proposal for us to develop the site under our own steam through my own construction company.
“We look forward to a happier path for the building to follow in 2020.”
