Mid-Scotland and Fife MSP Murdo Fraser has given his backing to Perth’s UK City of Culture Bid but has cautioned that unless broadband coverage improves the city will fail to capitalise on the benefits of a successful bid.
In a parliamentary debate secured by Conservative colleague Liz Smith, Murdo highlighted the city’s historical and cultural attractions whilst stressing that Perth needs support akin to that received by Dundee from Government in Edinburgh.
Extracts from Murdo’s speech to the chamber below:
“I believe that the city is well placed to be named UK city of culture 2021. I remember the long-fought campaign for city status for Perth, which was fought with cross-party backing, and it is good that the current campaign also has cross-party support. To have politicians from all sides unite in support of the bid to become UK city of culture will be hugely important in taking that forward.
“The Mill Street car park is set for major private sector investment in a regeneration project that is likely to bring a leisure complex complete with a cinema, gym, restaurants and shops. Encouraging such private sector investors to get involved will be incredibly important.
“Despite all those future plans and existing attractions, Perth is in many ways Scotland’s forgotten city. As other areas across the country have been handed generous support and investment, Perth for the most part has been left to its own devices. People in Perth have looked on with envy as Dundee has received substantial public investment by way of the Victoria and Albert museum and the waterfront development.
“Digital infrastructure must also improve if Perth is to be a serious contender. A modern city is online and interconnected. Google maps, TripAdvisor and Yelp are today’s guidebooks, and Perth must be able to deliver them to visitors on demand and on the move. Sadly, however, too much of Perth continues to lag behind, with broadband and internet speeds falling way behind what is expected in the 21st century. That needs to be improved.
“There are many challenges to overcome before that becomes a reality, but I look forward to working with colleagues across the chamber to further Perth’s case for being named the next UK city of culture.”