URGENT UPDATE: The Scottish Government has just confirmed a £1 million funding boost to assist Perth and Kinross Council (PKC) following the devastating fire at 41 Scott Street that claimed a man’s life and left several others injured. The fire, which erupted in the early hours of June 14, destroyed multiple flats and the popular pub, The Royal Bar, causing significant damage in the city center.
In the aftermath, PKC has already incurred costs of £934,000, with estimates projecting total expenses related to the fire could soar to £3.2 million. The majority of these costs stem from necessary demolition and the restoration of the street-scape. Currently, the council is engaged in discussions with insurance companies to recover some of these expenses, while also addressing welfare support costs that remain unrecoverable.
At a Finance and Resources Committee meeting on November 26, PKC’s finance chief, Scott Walker, announced that the funding from the Scottish Government will be allocated on December 15. This prompt financial assistance comes as Eric Drysdale, the SNP council leader, urged the Minister for Public Finance, Ivan McKee, for immediate support in the wake of this tragedy.
“I’m delighted to see my letter to the Minister has secured £1 million of financial support from the Scottish Government towards the costs associated with the tragic Scott Street fire,” Drysdale stated. He highlighted the council’s commitment to ensuring the best outcomes for the affected community, expressing gratitude to the officers who worked collaboratively to secure this vital funding.
The fire has had a profound impact on the local community, displacing a total of 55 households who received emergency support from PKC while demolition work continues. Many residents remain in temporary accommodation as recovery efforts proceed.
As the council continues to navigate the complex aftermath of this incident, further developments are expected in the coming days. The swift response from the Scottish Government underscores the urgency and importance of rebuilding efforts in Perth, ensuring that the city can recover from this tragic event while providing necessary support to those affected.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story as PKC works diligently to restore stability and safety in the community.
