Plans by Capability Scotland to build a residential care facility on the car park and play park site of Perth Leisure Pool have attracted around 30 objections. The proposals, submitted by Anderson Bell Christie Architects, include 60 apartments, a community hub, staff facilities, and some parking. The facility would relocate Capability Scotland from its current Upper Springland site on Isla Road.
Objections from Community Leaders
David Maclehose, former chairman of Live Active Leisure, objected, stating the site is owned by Live Active Leisure, not the council, and has flooded twice in the past decade. He noted that after an August 2020 flood, the pool closed for an extended period. Maclehose suggested building the care home on available land on Riggs Road, which has been available for years.
Perth Community Flood Aid raised concerns about moving vulnerable residents from one flood risk area to another. Their objection stated: “Residents of a care facility for those with complex needs should not be housed in a new development, on previously undeveloped land, with any risk of flooding, let alone 10 per cent annually and only half of the recommended freeboard allowance.”
Impact on Local Events
Stan Moug, organiser of the annual Perth Model Railway Exhibition at Dewars Centre, which attracts 3,000 people, described the plans as “another nail in the coffin of what was once a vibrant city.” He said the loss of parking would force him to move the event elsewhere, potentially taking the 33-year-old show to another city. He estimated the exhibition has generated over £125,000 in revenue for Dewars Centre.
Road Safety Concerns
Objector David Occleston questioned how coaches and minibuses would access the site, warning of increased accident risk and traffic chaos. He noted that the current two entry points would be reduced to one, making it vulnerable to closure and causing tailbacks onto Glover Street and Glasgow Road.
Planning Justification
Stantec, in a planning statement, argued the proposal offers a unique opportunity to create an inclusive neighbourhood for people with disabilities. The statement noted that Capability Scotland’s current facility at Upper Springland is aging and no longer meets 21st-century needs. A site at Bertha Park was initially considered but deemed unviable due to costs and logistical challenges.
The public consultation for the Capability Scotland application closed on June 26, while the consultation for a separate PKC application for 103 flats on the pool site closes on July 3.
