Perth given grant to restore historic buildings

• Perth given £650,000 to restore and repair historic buildings

• Scotland’s newest city will be officially recognised during a visit from the Queen later this month

• Perth has over 360 listed properties including the A-listed Sheriff Court and Perth Bridge

The money from Historic Scotland will support its city status with a grant awarded to Perth and Kinross Heritage Trust.

The funds will be spread over three years, most of which will be spent on repairing historic buildings.

The city will decide its priorities, within a strategy agreed with Historic Scotland.

Culture Secretary Fiona Hyslop said: “The grant from Historic Scotland will help secure Perth’s outstanding built heritage, enhancing the city and preserving a sense of place.

“Improving the historic properties will also encourage tourism, promote the use of traditional building skills and make the city of Perth a better place to live, work and invest in.

“Using sustainable materials to adapt existing buildings will also help support the historic environment’s transition to a low carbon economy.

“This award marks the culmination of a successful partnership between Historic Scotland and Perth and Kinross Heritage Trust.”

The grant has been made as a result of Perth being granted city status, which will be officially recognised during a visit by the Queen this month.

Perth’s historic buildings include more than 360 listed properties, such as the A-listed Sheriff Court, St John’s Kirk and Perth Bridge.

The Sheriff Court was built between 1816 and 1819 by Robert Smirke and is defined by a huge Greek Revival entrance portico and excellent interior.

St John’s Kirk dates to the 15th century, with later alterations, and was remodelled in the 20th century by one of Scotland’s best period architects, Robert Lorimer.

Perth Bridge, from 1766, features seven sandstone arches designed by John Smeaton.

Trust chairwoman Sue Hendry said: “The scheme will allow the trust to enhance and promote historic buildings within the conservation areas of Perth and Kinnoull, and will complement the Tay Landscape Partnership Scheme currently being developed to celebrate the unique character of the surrounding area.”