Council officials have set the ball rolling on a £1.2 million scheme to lure private investment into Perth city centre.
A search has been launched for contractors to work on the first phase of the Cultural Quarter project at Mill Street.
Perth and Kinross Council wants to overhaul the corridor between Perth Concert Hall and Pullar House and make it more attractive to visitors and businesses.
The aim is to enhance the area to complement recent additions, including a new Premier Inn and restaurant, as well as the anticipated relaunch of Perth Theatre.
The local authority kick-started the redevelopment yesterday with an invitation to companies to submit tenders for stage one of the work.
A spokesman said: “Perth and Kinross Council are seeking to appoint a suitably qualified and experienced contractor for planning public realm improvements in Mill Street and its surrounding vennels.
“This is to create a ‘cultural quarter’ and act as a catalyst for further private-sector investment in key development sites.”
He added: “The work will involve road construction, stone paving construction, road drainage, installation of street furniture and installation of electrical equipment.”
Bidders are asked to ensure that they can work with local businesses throughout the project and keep disruption to a minimum.
Phase two will be the subject of a later contract and will focus on the construction of the new look Perth theatre.
Council leader Ian Miller welcomed progress on the scheme, saying: “This is the next step in our longer-term plan to improve the environment and attractiveness of the city centre.
“I would expect to see a lot of interest from companies who wish to get involved in this exciting project.
“It is an opportunity to be involved in developing this key part of Perth city centre.”
Mr Miller said: “For too long Mill Street has been seen as the ‘trades entrance’ to the High Street, but the redevelopment of this area and its connected historic vennels will provide an opportunity to revitalise this area of the city.
“I think that this project will make a valuable and positive contribution to the overall vibrancy of Perth as a welcoming city.
“The construction phase will bring jobs and opportunities for local suppliers, and in the longer term the revitalised area will be one of the selling points of the city to inward investors looking for locations to relocate and expand.”
It is hoped that the new area will provide space for outdoor events, markets and dining.
Contracts for phase one are expected to be awarded next February.