Work is due to begin next month on a controversial multimillion pound development located near one of Perth’s main arterial roads, The Courier can reveal.
Despite Perth and Kinross Council initially rejecting the plan forDespite Perth and Kinross Council initially rejecting the plan for a family restaurant and Costa Coffee drive-in, objections from neighbouring residents and scathing criticism from a local councillor, UK pub chain Greene King’s scheme is set to begin, bringing around 60 jobs.Nina Stobie, associate director with Jones Lang Laselle (JLL), who are acting on behalf of Greene King, said the site is perhaps the “foremost business location” in Perth and confirmed work is due to get under way next month.“The available land was an attractive proposition for Greene King,” she said.“With its prime position, we expect strong interest in the remaining two plots as businesses look to tap into the benefits of being located at the heart of Scotland.”She continued: “The location benefits from unrivalled access to Scotland’s road network thanks to its position next to the Broxden Roundabout, which connects the M90, A9 and A93.“It’s situated close to the Broxden park and ride site, which serves the business park, the city centre and nearby bus and train stations.”Councillor Joe Giacopazzi, vice- convener of Perth and Kinross Council’s enterprise and infrastructure committee, added: “We are pleased to see that there is continued interest from businesses at the site and that most of the plots now have been occupied.“The business park is in a fantastic location and I hope that we will see the last two plots snapped up quickly.”Members of the council’s former development control committee knocked back the restaurant in December 2014, arguing the site should be reserved for new offices.This led to an appeal submitted to the Directorate for Planning and Environmental Appeals by Greene King, with the Reporter granting the appeal in August last year.They then were granted a drinks licence from the council in December.A rash of objections had been made by local residents who had claimed the development could lead to an increase in litter problems and antisocial behaviour.Councillor Willie Wilson, one of the representatives for the Perth City South ward, has been outspoken in his criticism of the plan, stating there is “no need” and “little support” for the expansive 1.67 acre development.He said: “We have plenty of excellent facilities in the immediate area such as the Harvester restaurant, McDonald’s, an Esso service station and also a brilliant local pub at Cherrybank,” he commented.