Councillors discussing the future of the derelict Perth City Hall have been asked to reverse plans to demolish the building.

According to reports, there are proposals to transform the premises into a hotel.

In December 2013, it was agreed to demolish the B-listed Edwardian building in order to allow a new city square to be created, but Councillors are now being urged to support plans to keep the building and support its redevelopment.

The hall has lain empty for almost nine years after a new modern concert venue was built in the city. Since then, Historic Scotland, the local authority and the local community have been unable to come to an agreement on the landmark's future.

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In 2012, Historic Scotland blocked the council's plans to destroy the hall. A redevelopment bid was then submitted by a group to turn the hall into an indoor food market, but the proposal was rejected, meaning demolition was once again an option. When an application to pull down the building was submitted in February 2014, a new application was then lodged to turn the property into a luxury hotel.

Developers The Seventy Group wish to develop the premises into a three-floor hotel consisting of 32 rooms, all the while retaining the exterior character, plus some interior features such as the hall ceiling. The proposals also include a bar and a restaurant, which would be open to the public, and banqueting facilities for 100 guests.

Planning officers have now recommended that Councillors support the application.

The council's development management committee is expected to make a decision shortly.

(JP)