Perthshire North MSP, Mr John Swinney, and Perth and North Perthshire MP, Mr Pete Wishart, have today urged Perth and Kinross Council to renew Perth’s Purple Flag status.

 The prestigious Purple Flag accreditation, similar to Green Flag status for parks and Blue Flag for beaches, aims to raise standards and maximise the appeal of centres between 5pm and 5am. In 2016, Perth became only the second city in Scotland to be awarded Purple Flag status.

Commenting, Mr Swinney said:

“I am disappointed that Perth and Kinross Council have chosen not to renew Perth’s Purple Flag accreditation. 

“The Purple Flag status was symbolic of the progress that Perth has made over the past decade, particularly since regaining city status in 2012. 

“The SNP have been at the forefront of this push to maximise Perth’s potential, and it is disappointing to see this progress being undone by the Tories’ parochial approach. I hope that the Tories will reflect on the wider message the loss of accreditation sends about our city and our wider ambitions as a region.”

Mr Wishart added:

“I am saddened to see that the Tory led administration have opted to row back on the great work that was previously done in achieving Purple Flag accreditation. Much like similar schemes which exist to promote the safety of parks and beaches, the Purple Flag scheme highlights town & city centres that offer an entertaining, diverse, safe and enjoyable night out.

“Perth has made significant progress over the years, it is vital the Tories are not responsible for this trend reversing.

“All too often this council have proved that they understand the cost of everything but the value of nothing. These sorts of schemes help to attract visitors into our city centre and I would ask that the administration look again at this matter”