MP describes PKC loss of £5m for city projects in budget “unjust”

Perthshire MP Pete Wishart has expressed his disappointment over the apparent loss of £5 million allocated for Perth city projects in the recent budget announcement. Wishart has urgently called upon Chancellor Rachel Reeves to reconsider the decision to withdraw the funding, which was initially awarded to Perth and Kinross Council in March.

The £5 million was earmarked for significant projects in Perth, including the restoration of Perth’s A-listed Lower City Mills, the conversion of a vacant former foundry into ‘The Ironworks’, and the transformation of the VisitScotland tourist information centre into a shopfront for local food and drink providers. The sudden withdrawal of the ‘Levelling Up’ initiative by the UK Government has cast doubts on the fate of the allocated funds.

In a letter dated October 31, Wishart highlighted the unjust nature of revoking funding that had already been committed and designated for specific projects, emphasising the impact these investments would have on Perth’s community, businesses, and overall city life. Council Leader Grant Laing expressed his disappointment at the decision, considering the potential benefits these projects would offer to Perth’s city centre.

Labour Party councillor Alasdair Bailey acknowledged the setback but noted the possibility of the Scottish Government receiving substantial Barnett consequentials, which could potentially offset the loss of the £5 million for Perth. The council is now eagerly awaiting clarity on the distribution of the consequential funds in the hope of continuing vital development projects in the area.

Efforts to reach the Treasury for comment on the situation have been made, as local officials and residents in Perth express their concerns over the future of these crucial city projects. Wishart’s plea to Reeves underscores the urgency of reconsidering the allocation of funds to support Perth’s growth and revitalisation.

Insights:
The loss of £5 million in funding for Perth city projects raises questions about the stability and support for local initiatives in the area. The impact of such a decision can have far-reaching consequences on the community, businesses, and overall development of the city. It highlights the importance of consistent government funding and the need for transparent and reliable investment to drive positive change and growth in local regions.

Summary:
Perthshire MP Pete Wishart has raised concerns over the withdrawal of £5 million designated for key city projects in Perth. The sudden loss of funding has sparked calls for Chancellor Rachel Reeves to reconsider the decision and support the vital developments planned for the area. The situation underscores the significance of consistent financial backing for local initiatives and the potential implications of funding cuts on community development and growth.