Historic Environment Scotland denies listed status for Perth Leisure Pool, impacting redevelopment plans.
Perth: The Perth Leisure Pool won’t get listed status. This follows an appeal from preservation campaigners. Historic Environment Scotland (HES) reviewed the pool’s status after the local council changed plans for a new leisure center.
Last year, the council told HES that plans for a new facility were advanced. They planned to build the new center at the pool site on Glover Street. However, HES decided not to list the pool, even though it deserved a category B status.
Two weeks later, the council announced plans to build the new center at Thimblerow. They also plan to demolish the pool to make way for 150 houses. HES agreed to reconsider the listing after a campaign group made an application.
Plans to Demolish Pool at Advanced Stage
HES completed a second investigation and again decided against listing the leisure pool. They believe the redevelopment plans are still advanced. The agency stated that changes to the proposals haven’t affected the decision on the existing pool.
Listed Status Would Have Been Issue
This decision is a relief for council leaders. They expect to present plans for the new leisure center to councillors on February 26. Many locals oppose the Thimblerow plans, especially since they don’t include a leisure pool.
Over 2,300 people signed a petition against the proposals. If the current pool had received listed status, it could have jeopardized the new center plans. HES confirmed they reviewed the development proposals and decided not to list the building at this time.
