Work has begun on one of the biggest developments in the centre of Perth for some years.
The £5 million transformation of the vacant Pullar building in Mill Street is seen as a massive boost to the local economy and will create 40-plus jobs, in addition to the construction-phase employment.
The project means a new use has been found for one of the city’s most high profile vacant buildings.
Lying adjacent to Perth Concert Hall, the 83-bedroom Premier Inn will prove a welcome additional option for delegates attending the many conferences the city now hosts.
Council leader Ian Miller said he warmly welcomed the sale of 1-21 Mill Street to developers Deanway Muir.
“This investment will regenerate a significant city centre building and create employment, both during the development works and in the running of the hotel,” said Mr Miller.
“It shows business confidence in Perth’s future and can only add to the vibrancy of the city centre and its appeal for visitors.
“New hotel accommodation supports the development of additional tourism and events in the city. This is something we are keen to promote through the Perth City Plan strategy, which we have developed with citizens and the business community following restoration of city status.
“I am also delighted that the developers are scheduled to begin the conversion works on the building this week, with the aim of opening the hotel in time for the 2014 Ryder Cup.
“The additional bed spaces the new Premier Inn will provide are important for this major sporting event and also our growing city events programme to encourage visitors to stay in the city.
“This will benefit the wider tourist trade, which is a major economic driver here in Perth and Kinross.”
Dominating Mill Street, which is parallel to the pedestrianised section of the High Street, the building dates from 1865 and is part of the former Pullar’s dyeworks complex, which was sited next to the town lade.
When the project was unveiled, Andrew Hutchinson of the developers said: “We are excited about this project and the potential to give such an important building a new lease of life.
“The offices have lain empty for a long time and attracting an operator of the calibre of Premier Inn is a real vote of confidence in the city of Perth.
“In addition to the new jobs that will be created, the proposed development will help facilitate further improvement in the whole Mill Street area.”
The refurbishment is expected to take around eight months, ensuring that the hotel will be fully operational well in advance of next year’s Ryder Cup.
Significant investment is also being made at the other end of the street at Perth Theatre, including a new frontage on Mill Street. The council is also looking at other ways of further enhancing the appearance of Mill Street.
Picture by Phil Hannah