Vandals who rampaged through an empty school building earmarked to become a major new arts centre are being hunted by police officers in Perth.
A “significant amount of damage” was caused to the former St John’s Primary in the city’s Stormont Street.
Police forensic officers have been carrying out investigations in the building in an effort to track down those responsible.
Council tradesmen have also been working hard to make the building secure after parts of the interior were rendered unsafe by the damage.
Heavy boards have been fixed in place around the ground floor.
Investigators are uncertain when the damage was caused as it appears the interior had not been checked for some time.
It is understood entry was forced over a five week period between Wednesday August 31 and Friday October 7.
During the attack, the vandals smashed a number of windows and entered bathrooms to tear sinks and other fittings from walls.
The spree apparently continued with wanton damage to the structure of the school, with holes punched into numerous walls.
Police Scotland said it was unable to put a figure on the damage at this time as investigations are still underway.
The building could become a major new arts venue for the city under ambitious plans being formulated by Perth and Kinross Council and partners, WASPS Artists’ Studios and Perth Contemporary Arts Trust.
Their project is still in the formative stages, but could create a contemporary exhibition space, artists’ studios and a multi-functional space for workshops and performances.
Other plans include a video and computer lab, a cafe and creative industry and incubator spaces.
The school grounds could also be converted into a community garden.
The Council said it was working to re-secure the building and ensure that it could not cause a risk to anyone entering as a result of the extensive damage.
A spokeswoman said: “Council officers are in the process of re-boarding the property and repairing any damage that may cause a health and safety risk to anyone who require access to the building for legitimate purposes.
“There was damage caused to some of the remaining furniture and internals doors and panelling.
“It is not expected the damage caused will impact on future development of the site.
“If anyone has any information regarding the break in then we would urge them to contact the Police.”
Anyone with information regarding the break-in and vandalism is asked to call Police Scotland on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
