Plans for the creation of a new civic square in the centre of Perth will go on display to members of the public today, 27th June.

An exhibition outlining the proposals will be held in St John's Shopping Centre, Perth, when people will be able to see details of the design for the new public space.

The Council has submitted listed building and planning applications for the demolition of the City Hall and the creation of the new square.

Given its prime location in the centre of Perth the area has an important role to play in supporting the local economy. The wide variety of associated uses of the civic square will help attract more visitors and shoppers to Perth, and enhance the vibrancy of the city centre.

The plan is to create a space that is versatile, attractive and practical. It draws on design practice that has proven to be effective in other locations, as well as on elements that are unique to Perth. The design uses St John's Kirk, the oldest medieval church in the area and Perth's most historically important building, as a focal point.

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The plan will restore the space that would originally have existed around St John's and bring it up to date as a space suitable for modern day use, featuring fountains and attractive street furniture.

It will be a place for people to enjoy day-to-day, and also play an important role in hosting a range of events and attractions throughout the year - from outdoor markets to a winter ice-rink.

The decision to move forward with demolition of the City Hall and the creation of a civic square was taken by members of the Council in June 2010, following a major public consultation exercise.

The option of full demolition and the creation of a large public space was supported by a significant proportion of the public and local businesses, and was also supported by an economic appraisal prepared by expert consultants.

Council Leader, Councillor Ian Miller, said: "This has been a very long road for the Council and the Perth and Kinross public, and I am delighted that we are moving ever closer to the creation of a civic square that can be enjoyed by everyone. These proposals will significantly enhance the environment, culture and economy of Perth. We listened to local residents and businesses, and reacted to what they told us. These exciting proposals will now move through the planning process."

If the proposals are recommended for approval by the Council they would then be submitted to the Scottish Government for a final decision, given the Council's interest in the planning application.

(CD/KMcA)