A pivotal step has been taken towards shaping Perth’s sustainable future, as a substantial contract, valued at nearly £2 million, has been awarded for the design of the city’s pioneering Eco-Innovation Park. This ambitious development forms a core component of the broader £500 million Perth West initiative, poised to redefine the region’s landscape and economic outlook.
The significant commission, totaling £1,911,680, has been secured by London-based firm Arcadis. Their mandate includes comprehensive site investigations and the crucial task of preparing and submitting the planning application for the initial phase of the Perth Eco-Innovation Park (PEIP). This foundational work will lay the groundwork for a cutting-edge hub at the strategic gateway located west of the bustling Broxden roundabout and the A9 corridor, signalling a new era of growth and sustainability for Perth and Kinross. A Vision for Comprehensive Regional Development
The Perth West project is an expansive undertaking, far surpassing just the eco-park. Its overarching vision encompasses the creation of thousands of new residential properties, a diverse range of business premises, modern hotel facilities, a dedicated educational institution, and a state-of-the-art healthcare centre. Beyond these structures, the masterplan includes vital infrastructure enhancements such as a new junction on the A9, an underpass beneath Broxden roundabout to improve connectivity, and an extensive network of new footpaths and cycleways, promoting active and sustainable travel throughout the expanding city.
The Eco-Innovation Park itself is designed to be a magnet for forward-thinking enterprises. It will offer a synergistic environment comprising commercial spaces, advanced research facilities, and community amenities. The primary objective is to attract businesses specialising in key growth sectors such as renewable energy, sustainable mobility solutions, and digital services. This strategic focus is intended to cultivate a dynamic ecosystem where innovation flourishes and environmentally responsible practices are at the forefront of development.
Promotional materials highlight the park’s commitment to sustainability, outlining plans to partner with tenants to significantly reduce overall energy consumption, implement advanced recycling programmes, and actively encourage the adoption of public transport, cycling, walking, and electric vehicle car-sharing schemes. The ultimate aim is to minimise the environmental footprint of all operations, both locally within Perth and on a global scale. Integral to this green infrastructure will be on-site renewable energy generation capabilities coupled with innovative battery storage solutions, ensuring a resilient and sustainable energy supply. Economic Impact and Green Growth
The economic projections for the Perth Eco-Innovation Park are considerable. It is anticipated to generate 1,080 new employment opportunities and inject an impressive £65 million annually into the city’s economy. The broader Perth West scheme is even more transformative, forecasting the creation of 2,300 permanent jobs alongside an additional 3,000 temporary positions during its construction phases. This monumental project aims to solidify Perth’s reputation as a leading example of urban development in Europe, celebrated for its intelligence, environmental responsibility, and progressive outlook.
Adding to the residential component of this grand vision is Lamberkin Village, another key part of the Perth West development. Its initial three phases are slated to deliver 1,000 new homes, with potential for a further 500 residences in subsequent stages. The land designated for this housing development is currently being marketed by Shepherd Chartered Surveyors on behalf of the John Dewar Lamberkin Trust, indicating the multi-faceted nature of this expansive urban transformation. Council Praises Milestone Achievement
A spokesperson for Perth and Kinross Council underscored the importance of this design contract, describing it as a significant achievement in Scotland’s ongoing journey towards a net-zero economy. The local authority views the Eco-Innovation Park as a cornerstone for fostering a new generation of businesses.
The spokesperson stated: “The Perth Eco-Innovation Park will provide the infrastructure and space to nurture innovation, attract investment and help sustainable businesses to thrive. It will offer a new way of working for all kinds of businesses, from flexible working environments for small start-ups, areas for research and development and manufacturing space for larger firms. The design will be used as part of our formal planning application for the Perth Eco-Innovation Park, and represents the next step towards creating a place where collaboration, creativity and green growth come together.”
The selection process for the design contract saw only a single tender submitted, underscoring the specialised nature and significant scope of the work involved. As Perth embarks on this ambitious journey, the Eco-Innovation Park stands as a testament to the region’s commitment to economic vitality harmonised with environmental stewardship.
The significant commission, totaling £1,911,680, has been secured by London-based firm Arcadis. Their mandate includes comprehensive site investigations and the crucial task of preparing and submitting the planning application for the initial phase of the Perth Eco-Innovation Park (PEIP). This foundational work will lay the groundwork for a cutting-edge hub at the strategic gateway located west of the bustling Broxden roundabout and the A9 corridor, signalling a new era of growth and sustainability for Perth and Kinross. A Vision for Comprehensive Regional Development
The Perth West project is an expansive undertaking, far surpassing just the eco-park. Its overarching vision encompasses the creation of thousands of new residential properties, a diverse range of business premises, modern hotel facilities, a dedicated educational institution, and a state-of-the-art healthcare centre. Beyond these structures, the masterplan includes vital infrastructure enhancements such as a new junction on the A9, an underpass beneath Broxden roundabout to improve connectivity, and an extensive network of new footpaths and cycleways, promoting active and sustainable travel throughout the expanding city.
The Eco-Innovation Park itself is designed to be a magnet for forward-thinking enterprises. It will offer a synergistic environment comprising commercial spaces, advanced research facilities, and community amenities. The primary objective is to attract businesses specialising in key growth sectors such as renewable energy, sustainable mobility solutions, and digital services. This strategic focus is intended to cultivate a dynamic ecosystem where innovation flourishes and environmentally responsible practices are at the forefront of development.
Promotional materials highlight the park’s commitment to sustainability, outlining plans to partner with tenants to significantly reduce overall energy consumption, implement advanced recycling programmes, and actively encourage the adoption of public transport, cycling, walking, and electric vehicle car-sharing schemes. The ultimate aim is to minimise the environmental footprint of all operations, both locally within Perth and on a global scale. Integral to this green infrastructure will be on-site renewable energy generation capabilities coupled with innovative battery storage solutions, ensuring a resilient and sustainable energy supply. Economic Impact and Green Growth
The economic projections for the Perth Eco-Innovation Park are considerable. It is anticipated to generate 1,080 new employment opportunities and inject an impressive £65 million annually into the city’s economy. The broader Perth West scheme is even more transformative, forecasting the creation of 2,300 permanent jobs alongside an additional 3,000 temporary positions during its construction phases. This monumental project aims to solidify Perth’s reputation as a leading example of urban development in Europe, celebrated for its intelligence, environmental responsibility, and progressive outlook.
Adding to the residential component of this grand vision is Lamberkin Village, another key part of the Perth West development. Its initial three phases are slated to deliver 1,000 new homes, with potential for a further 500 residences in subsequent stages. The land designated for this housing development is currently being marketed by Shepherd Chartered Surveyors on behalf of the John Dewar Lamberkin Trust, indicating the multi-faceted nature of this expansive urban transformation. Council Praises Milestone Achievement
A spokesperson for Perth and Kinross Council underscored the importance of this design contract, describing it as a significant achievement in Scotland’s ongoing journey towards a net-zero economy. The local authority views the Eco-Innovation Park as a cornerstone for fostering a new generation of businesses.
The spokesperson stated: “The Perth Eco-Innovation Park will provide the infrastructure and space to nurture innovation, attract investment and help sustainable businesses to thrive. It will offer a new way of working for all kinds of businesses, from flexible working environments for small start-ups, areas for research and development and manufacturing space for larger firms. The design will be used as part of our formal planning application for the Perth Eco-Innovation Park, and represents the next step towards creating a place where collaboration, creativity and green growth come together.”
The selection process for the design contract saw only a single tender submitted, underscoring the specialised nature and significant scope of the work involved. As Perth embarks on this ambitious journey, the Eco-Innovation Park stands as a testament to the region’s commitment to economic vitality harmonised with environmental stewardship.