UPDATE: The Scottish Government has just announced a crucial allocation of £1 million to the Perth and Kinross Council (PKC) following the devastating fire at 41 Scott Street. This urgent financial support comes in the wake of a tragic incident that occurred in the early hours of June 14, resulting in one fatality and multiple injuries.
The fire not only claimed a life but also severely damaged several flats and the popular local establishment, The Royal Bar. In the aftermath, PKC has already incurred costs amounting to £934,000, with projections estimating total expenses to soar to approximately £3.2 million. The majority of these costs are linked to the necessary demolition and restoration of the street-scape, essential for the community’s recovery.
Currently, the council is engaged in discussions with insurance companies to recover some of these expenses. However, officials warn that costs related to welfare support—obligations the council took on as part of its duty—are likely irrecoverable. Council leader Eric Drysdale had previously reached out to Minister for Public Finance Ivan McKee, urging for swift government assistance to cover the council’s urgent financial needs.
In a pivotal meeting of PKC’s Finance and Resources Committee on November 26, 2023, finance chief Scott Walker confirmed the funding. “Just this morning, funding from the Scottish Government of £1 million was confirmed and will be paid on December 15, 2023,” he stated.
Expressing relief, Drysdale emphasized the importance of this financial support, saying, “I’m delighted to see my letter to the Minister has secured £1 million of financial assistance towards the costs associated with the tragic Scott Street fire. I remain committed to securing the best outcomes for Perth and Kinross.”
As the community continues to grapple with the aftermath, PKC has provided emergency support to both residents and local businesses. A total of 55 households have been rehoused, while demolition work on the site remains ongoing. Several residents are still in temporary accommodation, highlighting the immediate human impact of this disaster.
With the confirmed funding, PKC can now better address the needs of those affected and work towards restoring the vibrant community atmosphere that was disrupted by this tragedy. As the situation develops, residents and stakeholders will be watching closely for further updates and recovery efforts.
This is a developing story with significant implications for Perth and Kinross. Stay tuned for further updates.
