Further consultation is needed around a £383,000 town centre revamp project in Highland Perthshire, it has been claimed.
Pitlochry received a share of Perth and Kinross Council’s £2m allocated package which will also see major upgrades in Coupar Angus, Crieff and Kinross.
The Scottish Government funding has strict allocation criteria and proposals had been touted to potentially develop the area of Atholl Road into a civic space but early infrastructure talks have hit a wall, leading to residents feeling excluded from the decision making process.
North Perthshire MSP John Swinney said the lack of meaningful communication with Pitlochry residents is slowing investment in the town.
He said he has been approached by constituents dissatisfied with the consultation process undertaken so far.
Mr Swinney believes the local authority has not truly engaged with residents and has urged council officers to “intensify dialogue” with the community to develop a proposal which is both publicly supported and uses the resources allocated to enhance the town centre.
He said: “The Scottish Government has allocated a very significant amount of funding to Pitlochry, and this is hugely welcome news.
“However, I am concerned that this funding may not be used in the most effective way due to a lack of consultation between the council and local residents.
“It is vital that the final project enjoys wide support, and that it draws from the views of a broad cross-section of the local community.
“Accordingly, I urge Perth and Kinross Council to engage in constructive dialogue with local stakeholders to ensure that this money is put to the best use possible.”
Local authority chiefs say they have carried out a comprehensive investigation into how the money can be spent and are continuing to search for a solution.
A council spokesperson said: “The council have carried out a full consultation process as regards to the town centre funding involving both communities and all local elected members.
“To date, the community has not been able to agree on a viable solution which satisfies the criteria. The council appreciates there are differing views and is working hard to find a way forward.”
In Crieff, money is being put aside for dealing with ongoing issues around the former Drummond Arms Hotel.
