Accidental Fire Devastates Fortingall Cottages: Investigation Reveals Suspected Cause
A devastating fire that tore through a row of cottages in the picturesque Perthshire village of Fortingall in March is believed to have been caused by improperly discarded hot ash, according to a report by the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS). The incident, which occurred on March 21st, prompted a significant emergency response, with nine fire appliances and specialist resources dispatched to the scene. The SFRS report, obtained via a Freedom of Information request, details the rapid escalation of the fire. It began in a shed behind one of the properties and quickly spread to an adjacent outbuilding, a garage, and a parked car. Tragically, the fire also reached an oil tank, causing an explosion that further fueled the flames and led to the involvement of neighboring homes. Among the damaged properties was Kirkton Cottage, a home where Marion Drummond had resided for 67 years. While the extent of the property damage was significant, thankfully no injuries were reported. Community Support in the Aftermath The tight-knit community of Fortingall and the surrounding areas rallied around those affected by the fire. A crowdfunding campaign, organized by Stuart McLean, partner of Ms. Drummond’s daughter, garnered widespread support, exceeding its initial goals and demonstrating the strength of local compassion in times of crisis. Mr. McLean expressed his gratitude for the overwhelming generosity, describing himself as “blown away” by the community’s response. The funds will be instrumental in helping Ms. Drummond rebuild her life after losing her long-time home and belongings. Thorough Investigation Rules Out Suspicious Activity The SFRS investigation concluded that the fire’s origin pointed towards the accidental disposal of hot ash. Witnesses confirmed that the ash had been removed from the house before a chimney sweep arrived at the property. The chimney sweep was the first to discover the fire and attempted to extinguish it with fire extinguishers before the flames became uncontrollable. Due to the clear witness testimonies and evidence gathered at the scene, the SFRS determined that further investigation involving Police Scotland was unnecessary. It’s important to note that the findings within the incident report represent the professional opinion of the attending fire officer, based on the information available at the time. This incident serves as a stark reminder to residents across Perth and Kinross about the potential dangers of improperly discarding hot materials, especially during drier periods. Regularly reviewing fire safety practices within the home can significantly reduce the risks of similar incidents occurring. Local fire stations offer guidance and resources to help residents create and maintain safe environments. While the physical scars of the fire will remain for some time, the resilience of the Fortingall community shines through. This unfortunate event underscores the importance of community support and preparedness in facing unexpected challenges.
Pavement Parking Penalties Exceed 500 in Perth and Kinross
Since the implementation of new parking regulations in Perth and Kinross on January 6th of this year, over 500 drivers have incurred £100 penalties for parking on pavements. The new rules, introduced under The Transport (Scotland) Act 2019, prohibit pavement parking, double parking, and parking across dropped kerbs. Early enforcement data reveals emerging hotspots for these violations. Perth City and Auchterarder Lead in Pavement Parking Fines St Catherine’s Road in Perth currently leads the region with 11 pavement parking tickets issued within the first two months of enforcement. Auchterarder’s Ruthven Street follows closely behind with nine penalties. Other streets with high numbers of violations include Tweedsmuir Road in Perth (eight tickets) and Inchbrakie Drive in Crieff (seven tickets). Mill Street in Perth and Whitecraigs in Kinnesswood also saw seven tickets issued each. Newhouse Road and Pullar Terrace, both in Perth, had six tickets each. Enforcement Efforts Target Various Locations While most locations have seen only one or two fines issued per day, some specific incidents resulted in multiple penalties. For example, four vehicles were ticketed on the Aldour Industrial Estate in Pitlochry on January 13th. A similar situation occurred at Almondgrove Place on Perth’s Inveralmond Industrial Estate on February 17th. A rural road off the A827 near Logierait also witnessed four separate pavement parking fines between January 8th and 12th. This suggests that parking enforcement is active across both urban and rural areas of Perth and Kinross. Council Anticipates Decline in Violations A Perth and Kinross Council spokesperson stated, “Although we are enforcing the ban on pavement parking by issuing penalty charge notices, our hope is the number of these issued will fall as motorists become used to the new rules.” The council emphasizes that pavement parking creates accessibility challenges, particularly for individuals with mobility or visual impairments, and contributes to pavement deterioration. As awareness of the restrictions grows and enforcement continues, the council expects a gradual reduction in infractions. Locations rounding out the top 12 include Main Street in Glenfarg, Levenbridge Place in Kinross, Glengarry Road in Perth, and Dunkeld Road in Perth, all with five tickets issued. The wide distribution of fines across the region indicates ongoing enforcement and a commitment to addressing pavement parking issues.
Blairgowrie Recreation Centre Opening Delayed Again Due to New Leak
Disappointment ripples through Blairgowrie and the surrounding Perth and Kinross communities as the eagerly awaited opening of the new Blairgowrie Recreation Centre faces yet another setback. A second leak has been discovered in the facility’s swimming pool, further postponing the opening date. This follows a previous leak detected in January, which had already pushed the projected opening from late 2020 to spring 2025. Perth and Kinross Council confirmed the new delay, emphasizing that contractors are diligently working to rectify the issue. The council reassured residents that while this is a frustrating situation, they will not bear any additional financial burden due to the leaks. Handover of the building will only occur once the council is fully satisfied that all aspects of the centre, including the pool, meet the required standards. This commitment aims to ensure the long-term quality and functionality of this significant community investment. Council Leader Calls for Review In response to the recurring delays, Council Leader Grant Laing has requested a comprehensive review, overseen by Councillor Colin Stewart, Convener of the Scrutiny Committee. This review will investigate the underlying causes of the construction setbacks and aim to identify lessons learned for future projects within Perth and Kinross, potentially benefiting construction practices region-wide. The council’s proactive approach demonstrates their accountability to the public and their commitment to optimizing construction processes. BAM Construction Director Addresses Concerns Paul Carle, Construction Director at BAM UK and Ireland, expressed his own disappointment regarding the delays. Acknowledging the intricate design of the pool and the involvement of specialized contractors, he explained the unforeseen technical challenges as the reason for the setbacks. Mr. Carle emphasized the importance of thorough testing and rectification of these issues prior to the public opening, reiterating their dedication to completing the necessary repairs as swiftly as possible. A Look Ahead The £36 million Blairgowrie Recreation Centre is set to become a vital community hub, offering a wide range of leisure facilities, including a modern swimming pool, a spacious four-court sports hall, a well-equipped gymnasium, a dedicated fitness suite, a dance studio, and an outdoor artificial sports pitch. These state-of-the-art amenities are intended to encourage health and wellbeing, offering diverse recreational opportunities for people of all ages and abilities within Blairgowrie and its surrounding areas. Until the new recreation centre is ready, residents can continue to utilize the current 40-year-old facility at Blairgowrie High School, which remains open and operational. The enhanced recreational opportunities this new centre will provide are expected to have a positive impact on the local area, making Blairgowrie an even more attractive place to live, work, and visit. The council’s commitment to resolving the current challenges and delivering a high-quality facility underscores their dedication to enhancing the lives of Perth and Kinross residents.
Perthshire Encounters with Imposters, Dangerous Drivers, and a String of Scams
From fake police officers to drug-impaired drivers and deceitful scammers, Perthshire has seen a range of unsettling incidents recently. These events highlight the importance of vigilance and awareness within our community. Bogus Constable Confronts Crieff Motorist In Crieff, a local resident had an unexpected encounter with a man impersonating a police officer. George Francis was parked on King Street on July 23, 2024, when Jamie Meager, driving a Volvo, pulled up behind him. Meager exited his vehicle, falsely identified himself as a police officer, and proceeded to critique Mr. Francis’s driving. Meager has since admitted to impersonating a police officer and breaching bail conditions at Perth Sheriff Court. Sentencing is pending background reports. Classroom Assault Leaves Dundee Teacher Unconscious A disturbing incident unfolded at a Dundee school where a pupil, Keiran Matthew, violently attacked a teacher, rendering her unconscious and bloodied. After the assault, Matthew reportedly displayed a callous disregard for the teacher’s well-being, further adding to the severity of the incident. The incident raises concerns about student behavior and classroom safety in local schools. Intoxicated Taxi Driver Enters Wrong Forfar Home A Forfar taxi driver, Rahim Bahar, 50, has been relieved of his duties after a series of alcohol-related incidents on April 3, 2025. Bahar, who admitted to driving under the influence of alcohol, was observed driving erratically and even entered a stranger’s residence before driving away. The homeowner’s presence briefly startled him before he exited, made a noise, and returned to his own car. His blood-alcohol level was significantly above the legal limit. Bahar, originally from Bangladesh and expecting a new child, claims he rarely drinks and was influenced by a friend. He was fined £380 and received a one-year driving ban. This incident serves as a reminder of the risks associated with drunk driving, particularly within residential areas like Glenogil Terrace and Lentlands Road. Dundee Man’s Cheque Scam Spans Tayside and Fife Ryan Lawson, a Dundee resident, has been sentenced for a protracted cheque fraud scheme targeting vehicle sellers online. The scam, which spanned over six years and impacted sellers across Tayside and Fife, involved Lawson using fraudulent cheques to purchase vehicles, leaving the unsuspecting sellers with substantial financial losses. Lawson’s complex and long-running scam highlights the increasing need for caution in online transactions, especially those involving high-value items. Drug-Impaired Driver Crashes While Transporting Vehicle Mark Hamilton, 31, from Motherwell, was found to be six times over the drug-driving limit when he crashed a Range Rover Discovery he was transporting from Aberdeen to Strathclyde. The incident occurred near Bogindollo in Angus, where Hamilton’s vehicle overturned. Though the crash wasn’t directly caused by his driving, his impairment raised serious safety concerns. Hamilton claimed he believed the cocaine he had consumed days earlier was no longer in his system. He was fined £420 and disqualified from driving for 16 months. This incident emphasizes the dangers of driving under the influence of drugs and the persistence of drugs in the body. These recent incidents across Perthshire underscore the diverse challenges facing our community, demanding heightened vigilance from residents and continued efforts to improve safety and security for all.
New Glasgow Airport Bus Route: A Courier Review from a Perthshire Perspective
A new bus service connecting Dundee, Perth, and Stirling to Glasgow Airport has recently launched, promising a convenient travel option for holidaymakers. The Courier decided to put this new FlixBus route to the test, embarking on a round trip from Dundee to Glasgow Airport to assess its practicality and comfort, particularly for residents of Perth and Kinross. Testing the Service: A Simulated Holiday Journey Boarding the green FlixBus coach in Dundee city centre, our reporter joined a mix of passengers, some of whom had embarked at the start of the route in Aberdeen. The journey to Perth was smooth, offering scenic views of the River Tay and the picturesque Carse of Gowrie. However, delays began to surface upon reaching Perth’s Broxden Roundabout, a key interchange for many Perthshire commuters, with traffic slowing to a crawl. Similar congestion was encountered at the Keir Roundabout near Dunblane, another familiar bottleneck for those travelling from Perthshire. While the onboard Wi-Fi offered a welcome distraction, these delays raised questions about the reliability of the service for time-sensitive travellers. Interestingly, despite the bus stopping at Castleview Park and Ride near Stirling and Broxden Park and Ride, no new passengers boarded at either location. The Park and Ride locations, while offering potential for convenient transfers, seemed underutilized, possibly due to their distance from Perth and Stirling city centres and limited shuttle services connecting them. The journey continued towards Glasgow, passing by the iconic Stirling Castle, shrouded in the distance by heavy rain. Nearing Glasgow, further traffic disruptions were experienced near Denny, adding to the growing concern about adhering to a strict flight schedule. Arriving at Glasgow Buchanan Bus Station before the final leg to the airport, it became apparent that the majority of passengers were not airport-bound, highlighting the dual purpose of the route, serving both city-to-city and airport travellers. The final stretch to the airport, however, was completed efficiently, with the bus arriving on schedule. Comparing Travel Options: Cost and Convenience for Perthshire Residents With over two hours to spare before the return journey, there was ample opportunity to compare the cost and convenience of the bus service to alternative modes of transport. The pre-booked return bus ticket from Dundee cost just under £24. Considering current parking charges at Glasgow Airport exceeding £50 for a three-day stay (plus the considerable fuel costs for the round trip from Perthshire), the bus presented a significantly more economical option. Train travel offered another possibility, however with a ScotRail return journey from Dundee to Glasgow likely costing at least £28, plus the additional £11.50 for the airport bus connection from Glasgow city centre, the overall price was still higher than the direct Flixbus route. While other coach services offer potentially cheaper fares to Glasgow itself, the lack of direct airport transfers from their arrival points adds to both travel time and cost, making the new FlixBus route appealing for its direct link to the airport. Return Journey and Overall Verdict The return journey to Dundee was relatively smooth, passing through Perth and Stirling with minimal delays. Despite a slight issue with mismatched seat reservations on the return coach, the overall journey time was reasonable, clocking in at around two hours and 25 minutes. The comfortable seating and direct route made for a pleasant experience, though the increasing stuffiness on the bus towards the end of the journey slightly detracted from the overall comfort. For Perthshire residents, the new FlixBus service to Glasgow Airport offers a compelling alternative to driving, especially for shorter trips where parking costs can quickly escalate. The environmental benefit of opting for public transport also adds to its appeal. However, the limited timetable, particularly the lack of service during certain parts of the day, and potential for traffic-related delays may require careful planning and consideration of flight schedules. Future improvements to the Park and Ride services, particularly enhancing connections to city centres, could further boost the attractiveness of this route for those living in and around Perth.
Letham Man Accused of Serious Assault and Attempting to Obstruct Justice
A Letham resident is in custody following a late-night incident on Campsie Road that sent another man to the hospital. The incident, which occurred shortly after midnight on Friday, April 18, 2025, prompted a significant police presence in the area, with neighbors reporting officers and forensic teams at the property for several hours. Chad Nethington, 33, appeared at Dundee Sheriff Court on Saturday, April 19, 2025, facing charges of assault to severe injury and danger to life, as well as attempting to pervert the course of justice. The court appearance follows a swift response by Police Scotland to the incident. A 57-year-old man, the alleged victim of the assault, was transported to Ninewells Hospital in Dundee for treatment. Details about the man’s condition and the extent of his injuries have not yet been released. Neighbors React to Letham Incident The incident has understandably stirred concern amongst residents of Campsie Road. One neighbor, awakened by the commotion in the early hours of Friday morning, described the scene to local news. They reported hearing significant noise and witnessing individuals in hazmat suits entering the property later that morning, with police canvassing the neighborhood for information. Court Proceedings and Ongoing Investigation During his court appearance in Dundee, Nethington made no plea. The Sheriff has ordered him to be remanded in custody pending further investigation. He is expected to appear in court again within the next eight days. This incident has sent ripples through the Letham community, prompting discussions about safety and security in the area. While the police investigation continues, residents are encouraged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to Police Scotland. Community leaders and local support services are also available to provide assistance and address concerns within the neighborhood. As the legal process unfolds, the community awaits further updates from the authorities. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of community safety and the role we all play in looking out for one another, especially in residential areas like Letham. It underscores the value of strong community ties and communication with local authorities to maintain a safe and secure environment for all residents of Perth and Kinross.
Shadow Flicker Concerns Lead to Aviva Wind Turbine Shutdowns in Perth
Residents near Aviva’s Pitheavlis office in Perth are experiencing disruptions caused by the recently installed wind turbine’s shadow flicker. Perth and Kinross Council confirmed a neighbour’s complaint about the flickering shadows cast by the turbine’s rotating blades was “justified,” leading Aviva to implement shutdown procedures. The 77-meter structure, which became operational late last year, was intended to work in conjunction with existing solar panels to fully power the Aviva office. Addressing Shadow Flicker Issues Shadow flicker, a phenomenon occurring when sunlight is interrupted by the spinning turbine blades, can create an irritating visual effect for those living nearby. The impact is influenced by several environmental elements, such as the intensity and angle of the sun, wind patterns, and the presence of clouds. Aviva’s comprehensive shadow flicker management plan, crafted by 350 Renewables, outlines conditions under which the turbine should cease operation to mitigate these disturbances. These conditions are most likely to occur in Perth between late September and mid-March, when specific sunlight and shadow conditions coincide. Following a complaint lodged on February 6th, the council initiated an enforcement investigation. Planning officer Sean Panton’s report stated a planning condition had been breached, leading Aviva to voluntarily implement further shutdown protocols as detailed in their shadow flicker management plan. The council now considers the issue resolved. While these shutdowns address the resident’s concerns, they potentially impact the turbine’s overall energy generation capacity and Aviva’s goal of achieving 100% renewable energy for its Perth facility. Community Impact and Future Considerations The turbine’s presence has generated considerable discussion within the community since its approval in 2022. Some residents voiced surprise at the scale of the structure during installation in October 2024. Despite the turbine’s initial promise of sustainable energy and its celebratory naming as “Aurora” by Viewlands Primary School students, challenges remain. This isn’t the first hurdle faced by the project. Late last year, the council also raised safety concerns about Aviva’s initial proposal to prominently display their logo on the turbine. The current situation highlights the complexities of integrating renewable energy infrastructure within residential areas. Balancing the benefits of sustainable power generation with the potential impact on residents necessitates careful planning and ongoing communication between developers, local authorities, and the community. While the specific frequency of shutdowns and the number of affected residents remain undisclosed, the incident emphasizes the importance of addressing shadow flicker concerns to ensure harmonious coexistence between renewable energy projects and the surrounding community. As Perth continues to explore and adopt sustainable energy solutions, the lessons learned from the Aviva wind turbine will be crucial in shaping future initiatives and ensuring minimal disruption to residents.
Grow Wild Initiative Sparks Debate in Aberfeldy and Beyond
Perth and Kinross Council’s Grow Wild initiative, a nature-focused project designed to enhance biodiversity across the region, is facing mixed reactions from residents, especially in Aberfeldy. While the council aims to foster ecological growth and reduce its environmental impact, some community members have expressed concerns about the practical implications of the scheme. The initiative involves reducing mowing frequency in certain public green spaces, allowing native wildflowers and grasses to flourish. Signage has begun appearing in parks and open areas, informing the public of these changes. While environmentally beneficial, the shift is causing apprehension in Aberfeldy, with some locals questioning the suitability of this approach for their town. Concerns Raised about Impact on Recreation and Amenities Residents in Aberfeldy have voiced fears that less frequent mowing could lead to increased dog fouling, an accumulation of litter, and a heightened risk of ticks. There are also worries about the impact on children’s play, with some believing that overgrown areas may discourage outdoor games and activities. A particular point of contention is the proposal to reduce mowing around Aberfeldy’s Black Watch monument, a site of historical significance. Residents like Val Ferguson believe this would disrespect the regiment’s history. Val Ferguson, a local resident, emphasizes the existing abundance of natural landscapes surrounding Aberfeldy. ‘We live in the countryside,’ she points out, questioning the necessity of introducing more ‘wild’ areas when natural wilderness is readily accessible. She advocates for prioritizing children’s play areas and preserving traditional parkland aesthetics. Remembering Last Year’s Pilot Project The Grow Wild initiative isn’t entirely new to the region. A pilot phase was implemented last summer in Perth and its surrounding areas. This initial effort encountered considerable pushback. Residents cited issues with overgrown play areas, obstructed visibility on roadside verges, and unkempt cemeteries. Many saw the changes not as environmental progress but as a thinly veiled attempt to cut costs. This year, the council has emphasized its commitment to implementing the project thoughtfully, working with local communities to address their specific concerns. Councillor John Duff, representing Aberfeldy, has facilitated discussions between council officials and residents to find common ground. He has stressed that children’s play areas and sports pitches will remain largely unaffected by the changes, and key locations like the Black Watch monument will continue to receive regular maintenance. Further enhancements are planned, including the introduction of trees, bulbs, and wildflower seeding in selected areas to create a more curated and appealing natural aesthetic. Balancing Environmental Goals with Community Needs Councillor Duff acknowledges the council’s budgetary constraints and the need for efficiency in grounds maintenance. He notes substantial reductions in the ground maintenance budget over recent years, emphasizing the financial realities that influence the council’s decisions. The reduced mowing is presented as a necessary measure to achieve savings within these limitations. The council has affirmed its intention to collaborate with communities across Perthshire, including Aberfeldy, to balance environmental goals with the need for safe, accessible, and enjoyable public spaces. The council’s vision for Grow Wild emphasizes fostering biodiversity, reducing carbon emissions, and enhancing the appeal of green spaces for the community. It hopes that through ongoing dialogue and community involvement, the project will find wider acceptance. A planned walkabout of potential Grow Wild areas in Aberfeldy will provide an opportunity for residents and council representatives to discuss the specifics of the initiative and ensure that local needs and preferences are considered in its implementation.
Crieff Hydro Unveils £5 Million Transformation of Dining and Drinking Scene
Perthshire’s iconic Crieff Hydro has completed a major refurbishment of its restaurants and bars, marking the largest single investment in the family-run business’s history. The £5 million project aims to elevate the dining and drinking experience for both locals and visitors, further solidifying the hotel’s reputation as a premier destination in Scotland. The extensive renovations have resulted in a diverse range of culinary offerings, catering to a wide spectrum of tastes and preferences. The transformation signifies a commitment to enhancing guest experiences and attracting a new generation of patrons while maintaining the hotel’s strong ties to its loyal family market. From Ballroom to Bar: A Nod to Heritage with a Modern Twist One of the most dramatic changes is the conversion of the hotel’s historic ballroom into a sophisticated new bar. The Ballroom Bar retains the elegance of its past while embracing a contemporary design, creating a versatile space suitable for both daytime relaxation and evening entertainment. An impressive oak-stained gantry with glass and metalwork accents serves as a centerpiece, blending seamlessly with the updated aesthetic. Adding to the hotel’s allure is The Hermitage, a new speakeasy-style cocktail bar tucked away behind a secret door, offering an intimate and exclusive atmosphere. This unique addition reflects the growing trend of hidden bars and adds an element of intrigue for those seeking a more clandestine drinking experience. A Culinary Journey Through Six Distinct Venues Crieff Hydro now boasts six distinct dining and drinking venues, each with its own character and culinary focus: – *EAST:* An exciting new restaurant serving Asian-inspired small plates, reflecting the increasing popularity of this cuisine. The focus is on sharing dishes and experiencing a variety of flavors. – *The Ballroom Bar:* As previously mentioned, the transformed ballroom, offering a refined setting for drinks and socializing. – *The Brasserie:* A relaxed and inviting space specializing in classic bistro dishes, perfect for casual dining. – *The Winter Garden:* A bright and spacious Victorian-era setting, revitalized for modern all-day dining, serving a wide selection of meals throughout the day. – *Loggia:* A beautiful setting with panoramic views of Strathearn, ideal for enjoying brunch or afternoon tea, providing a tranquil escape with stunning scenery. – *The Hermitage:* The hidden gem, a speakeasy cocktail bar, creating a sense of exclusivity. A Family Legacy Continues The vision for this ambitious project was spearheaded by Richard and Charlie Leckie, representing the sixth generation of the Leckie family to lead Crieff Hydro. Working alongside Fiona Leckie, the hotel’s experienced head of interiors, they have carefully balanced the desire for modern updates with a respect for the hotel’s rich history and traditions. The Leckie family’s enduring commitment to guest satisfaction and innovation is evident throughout the new dining and drinking spaces. Charlie Leckie emphasized the importance of offering diverse culinary experiences, comparable to popular destinations in major cities. This commitment ensures that Crieff Hydro continues to attract a diverse clientele and solidify its position as a leading culinary and hospitality destination in Perthshire and beyond. The family intends for these revitalized spaces to resonate with a new generation while honoring the expectations of their longstanding guests. They believe these improvements will make any visit to Crieff Hydro an even more memorable experience.
Perth Holiday Let Shut Down Following Planning Investigation
A seemingly popular Perth holiday let, advertised as “luxurious” and commanding nightly rates of £140, has ceased operations after an investigation by Perth and Kinross Council. The two-bedroom flat in Morris Court became the subject of enforcement proceedings when it came to the council’s attention that the property, lacking the necessary planning permission, was being used for short-term rentals. This incident underscores the increasing scrutiny faced by holiday lets in Perth and Kinross, particularly as the popularity of platforms like Airbnb and Booking.com continues to rise. Local residents have often voiced concerns regarding the potential impact of short-term lets on the availability of long-term housing, as well as issues related to noise and community disruption. Morris Court, located within a residential area, is likely no exception to these concerns. Swift Action Prevents Further Measures While the council found that the Morris Court flat’s use as a holiday let did constitute a planning breach, they ultimately decided against further enforcement action due to the owner’s quick response. The owner promptly removed the property listing from all online booking platforms, effectively halting the unauthorized short-term rental activity. This rapid action likely saved the owner from potential fines or other penalties. The council’s decision to close the enforcement case demonstrates a pragmatic approach, prioritizing compliance over punitive measures. Glowing Reviews Highlight Lost Opportunity? Ironically, despite the planning issue, the Morris Court holiday let seemed to be highly regarded by its guests. Booking.com archives reveal an average rating of 8.9 out of 10 from 16 reviews posted between March and September 2024. One guest, identified as James from the UK, even awarded the apartment a perfect 10, describing it as “very stylish, very modern, very clean and fresh.” He also praised the location, parking, and spaciousness of the flat, remarking that it had “everything you need for one night to a weekend away.” These positive reviews raise questions about the balance between meeting local housing needs and supporting tourism in Perth. With the city’s efforts to attract visitors and boost its economy, the loss of well-received accommodation like the Morris Court flat might represent a missed opportunity. This situation could prompt discussions about streamlining the planning application process for holiday lets, perhaps making it easier for property owners to operate within the regulations while contributing to the local tourism sector. Further exploration might involve examining whether similar properties in Morris Court or the surrounding area are being used as holiday lets without proper authorization, and if so, what steps the council is taking to ensure consistent application of planning regulations. The incident also highlights the challenges faced by local authorities in monitoring and regulating the rapidly expanding short-term rental market. With numerous online platforms and properties frequently changing hands, ensuring compliance with planning regulations requires ongoing vigilance and proactive engagement with property owners and agents.