INCREASED innovation is required to unlock the investment needed to revive empty and neglected buildings in Scotland’s towns, a conference in Perth has heard.
The impact of transforming existing buildings into new homes, modern business spaces and visitor attractions was a key focus at the Scotland’s Towns Conference.
Delegates discussed how the power of public and private partnerships is ‘critical’ in creating the circumstances and attracting the finance needed to drive development, enhance sustainability and build community wealth.
The conference – with the theme of Investing in Our Assets for Sustainable Towns of the Future – was held at Perth Concert Hall.
Tom Arthur MSP, Scotland’s minister for employment and investment, delivered the opening address. He said, “Using existing assets is key to re-imagining and revitalising our town and city centres. This ambition is backed by a strong policy framework, including the Scottish Government’s commitment to the Town Centre First Principle and delivery of our Town Centre Action Plan. We continue to engage with local government and other partners to explore innovative ways of working together to support thriving town centres that are resilient, sustainable and meet the needs of their local communities.”
The conference, organised by Scotland’s Towns Partnership (STP) in association with Perth and Kinross Council, highlighted the importance of cultural, built, and natural assets in driving economic, social, and environmental progress.
Hosted by broadcaster Rona Dougall, it was attended by major players in town centre regeneration, including community organisations as well as experts in enterprise, housing, design, development, culture and retail.
STP chief officer Kimberley Guthrie commented, “Town centre regeneration is fundamental to driving economic growth. But we know it is not easy. There are many challenges and barriers to development which often need to be overcome. Every community is unique. There’s no one-size-fits-all route to success and sustainability. What most places have in common, however, is the increasingly important need for collaboration between public, private and voluntary organisations in order to achieve anything at scale.
“More innovative approaches to investment and funding, including cross-sector partnerships, are needed in order to deliver change. This includes in fulfilling the true potential of buildings and other assets which are already there, but need to be made fit for the future. We are working hard to share inspirational examples and make connections so that people leave the conference energised and ready to take action to make a positive difference.”
Councillor Grant Laing, leader of Perth and Kinross Council, also spoke at the conference. He said, “Perth has many advantages in these challenging times for town centres and it was a privilege to be able to showcase these at the Scotland’s Towns Conference. From our strong tradition of independent retailers to how the council has made a commitment to being creative and innovative in both how we make use of our own buildings and in supporting businesses and property owners to do the same.
“I hope that everyone attending the conference was inspired by their visit to Perth and I look forward to welcoming back many of those delegates who expressed an interest in finding out more about our local approaches.”
