Empty and derelict buildings are the biggest concern in Crieff.
That was the findings of a comprehensive survey carried out recently by Crieff Community Trust.
More than 500 people attended an open day at Strathearn Community Campus last month, where they were asked to vote on the issues which most concerned them about the area.
The number of derelict buildings on the High Street - including the Drummond Arms Hotel - garnered over 100 more votes than any other issue.
A total of 248 people called for action to be taken, while 137 wanted to see a town centre community arts, music and drama venue set up, perhaps using one of the old buildings in the town.
Ailsa Campbell, vice chairperson of CCT, said: “We were not surprised at how passionate local people feel about Crieff’s beautiful historic buildings which have been left lying empty and allowed to fall into disrepair.
“This issue attracted more than 100 votes more than any other, while a huge number of people want to see a town centre community arts centre.”
She added: “There were numerous comments from the open day about wanting a community space or arts centre in the Drummond Arms which would definitely enliven the town centre.
“Some people may be daunted by the task of regenerating the Drummond Arms, but what is the alternative? The end result could have a huge positive impact on the town centre for residents.”
Another bone of contention was the future of Crieff’s Cottage Hospital.
This was the third highest issue of concern, with many residents perhaps fearing that the recent announcement of the closure of the hand clinic at the hospital was a sign of things to come.
Colin Roxburgh, of the Scottish Town and Rural Development Group which is helping CCT lay out an action plan for the future, said: “I think this is a marker which shows just how strongly people feel about their local hospital, and the fear they have that it could come under threat in the future.”
Next most popular in the survey was the setting up of specialist cycling and walking routes around the town.
Residents also wanted to support and promote local shops, and to see an improvement in public transport, as well as giving Crieff a boost as a tourist destination to encourage visitors; and the establishment of a year-round programme of events designed to bring people to the town.
Ailsa Campbell said: “We are working closely with the community council and CUSP, the Crieff and Upper Strathearn Partnership, to write Crieff’s Action Plan for 2013 - 18.”
She added: “We plan to present the final document to the community in February. The action plan will be a very useful tool for any group looking for funding or to support their goals.
“For instance, groups in Muthill and Comrie pushing for a bike path to Crieff could use it to support their applications.”
CCT is currently looking for new members to push forward the wide programme of improvements planned to breathe new life into the town.
For a membership form or to find out more details of the full report, log on to the trust’s website at www.crieffcommunitytrust.org.uk.
