Perth & Kinross (P&K) Council has purchased a former city-centre church site as part of its plans to turn the building into a new public space.

The local authority will take ownership of the B-Listed St Paul's Church from 31 January.

The building has fallen into a state of disrepair in recent years and also has been on the Buildings at Risk Register for Scotland for a number of years while in private ownership.

Council Leader Ian Miller said plans on how to progress work at the building were now at an advanced stage.

Proposals include creating a new space which could be used for day-to-day use, as well as a venue for music, drama and other arts events.

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Cllr Miller said: "This is a very important milestone for Perth. Plans are already at an advanced stage for how work on the building will progress, and now that there is a clear timescale for taking possession of the building, these plans can be finalised ready for implementation. While there is not going to be a quick fix to St Paul's, we will start to see action quickly with scaffolding going up around the structure, to allow safe access for contractors to begin a complete assessment of what is required, as well as measures to ensure public safety.

"There has been a positive public response to the Council's willingness to take action on this building, and I am pleased to say that we have already had contact from organisations who see the potential of using the new outdoor space which will be created within the shell of St Paul's. This is a very exciting project, and I look forward to seeing it take shape and develop as a performance venue which can be used by our creative communities and create opportunities to attract new visitors into the region for the benefit of the local economy."

(LM/MH)