Mid-Scotland and Fife MSP, Murdo Fraser, used his time during Portfolio Questions to air concerns regarding the future of town centre regeneration in Blairgowrie if police public counter services are removed.
The Federation of Small Business has warned that the removal of public counter services could hamper the redevelopment of rural town centres.
Commenting Murdo Fraser MSP said;
“It was important to raise the issue of proposed public counter closures within the context of town centre regeneration. The FSB have expressed real concern regarding the viability of certain town centre regenerations if there is a removal of police public counter services.
“Blairgowrie has benefited from a community based approach to policing and any removal of this open and accessible form of law enforcement could damage the economic prospects of new businesses entering the area.
“The minister’s response was welcomed, but such general remarks will do little to ease the concern of Blairgowrie businesses and residents who are facing the real threat of a reduced police presence.”