Senior Councillors from Perth & Kinross have visited the proposed site of the new National Performance Centre for Sports (NPCS).

Council Leader Councillor Ian Miller (SNP), Councillor Peter Barrett (Lib Dem), Councillor Mac Roberts (Conservative) and Councillor Archie MacLellan (Labour) all visited the site at Ruthvenfield this morning to examine the plans for the proposed new centre.

In the plans, it describes a transformation of the 30-hectare site and would include leading facilities for football, athletics, basketball and other sports.

The Perth NPCS would include:

•A floodlit, international natural grass pitch


•3 additional floodlit natural grass pitches

•A floodlit 3G pitch

•2 goalkeeper training areas

•An indoor 3G international pitch with spectator seating

•A health and fitness suite

•An education and learning facility

•Administration office

•A 9 court sports hall

•A 12 court sports hall

•A beach volleyball hall

•A 400m running track

•A fitness centre

•Health and well-being facilities

Speaking about the proposal, Councillor Ian Miller said: "The NPCS represents a unique and inspirational asset for Scotland and its athletes. It's an exciting prospect. Perth is Scotland's newest city, located in the heart of the country.

"The Fair City is an ambitious and forward-looking place, and we are the perfect location for the NPCS."

Councillor Roberts added: "Perth has superb transport links. We are within 90 minutes of 90% of Scotland's population which is a key strength in our bid. Sports people from across Scotland will be able to reach the Perth NPCS quickly and easily, which will allow them to concentrate on their performance goals."

Proposals which have successfully made it to the next round of selection are expected to be announced by the end of March.

(JP)