Perth and Kinross Council agrees up to £3 million to demolish historic hotel

Perth and Kinross Council has approved a budget of up to £3 million for the demolition of the historic Drummond Arms Hotel in Crieff due to safety concerns. The decision comes after over £1 million of public funds were invested in the hotel’s redevelopment, which dates back to 1874. Council members have agreed to conduct a detailed review following the unsuccessful redevelopment efforts.

Council leader Grant Laing emphasized that the demolition of the hotel was a last resort and a necessary action to ensure public safety. Local councillor Stewart Donaldson described the situation as “deeply tragic”. The Crieff Community Trust had initiated efforts to purchase the hotel in 2014, leading to the establishment of Drummond Arms Regeneration Limited (DARL) in 2019 with hopes of revitalizing the building. Unfortunately, despite receiving substantial grant funding, including contributions from the Scottish Government and Perth and Kinross Council, the project faced challenges.

With DARL facing voluntary liquidation by March 2025 and no clear path for future funding or usage of the building, the council has been urged to acquire the hotel and address the safety risks it poses. The Finance and Resources Committee of PKC has approved the council taking ownership of the building and allocating funds for demolition. A review into the circumstances surrounding the failed redevelopment has also been agreed upon by the Scrutiny and Performance Committee of PKC.

As the historic hotel, previously operating as the Drummond Arms, faces demolition after years of neglect and unsuccessful redevelopment attempts, stakeholders express sentiments of sadness and regret. The building had significant historical and social value to the town of Crieff and its residents, making the decision to demolish it a difficult but necessary one for public safety.

This unfortunate turn of events highlights the importance of proper planning and oversight in community redevelopment projects to avoid wastage of public funds and ensure the preservation of heritage buildings. Moving forward, there is a need for stricter regulations and accountability measures to prevent similar situations from reoccurring in the future.