Perth 800

by Alan Graham

Events and Tourism Manager Economic Development, Perth & Kinross Council

Celebrating Perth 800

2010 is the 800th anniversary of the founding of the Royal Burgh of Perth with King William the Lion having granted the Royal Charter in 1210. At that time Perth was effectively the capital of Scotland and the foremost royal burgh in the country with the exception of Edinburgh.

To mark the 800th anniversary Perth and Kinross Council is planning celebrations which will see a year long programme of events and activities developed with the objectives of driving civic pride, economic growth through tourism, and enhancing the profile of Perth and Kinross nationally and internationally. Perth 800 will also create the foundation for the bid for formal city status for Perth.

Set in the context of the Community Plan vision of a confident and ambitious Perth and Kinross, the Perth 800 programme is being developed not only to celebrate the Perth story but to project a contemporary appeal of Perth and Kinross for residents and visitors alike. A Steering Group, chaired by Provost John Hulbert, and comprising representatives from a range of organisations including the Chamber of Commerce and the business sector, is overseeing the development of the programme and is keen to see it contribute to the ambition for Perth and Kinross as a vibrant and successful area with a thriving economy. While the main spotlight for Perth 800 will be on the city of Perth itself a key aim is to ensure benefits for the whole of the area and to use the opportunity to showcase the best that Perth and Kinross has to offer.

The Perth 800 programme is being built around a number of core themes:

Heritage

Within the heritage theme there will be a focus on initiatives in relation to the built and natural environment – from green spaces to archaeology and townscape improvements. There will also be activities in relation to ancestral tourism such as a family history festival.

The Future

This themes addresses the future aspirations of our residents with a particular focus on education and engagement with young people

Communities

This theme brings the focus on events and activities that will help to create a sense of place in our communities and it is envisaged that there will be a small grants scheme for local groups and organisations to develop or enhance activities as part of the overall programme.

Culture and Sport

This theme will cover a broad programme of cultural, artistic and sporting activities including enhancing the existing portfolio such as Perth Festival of the Arts as well as the opportunities for new commissions.

Civic Programme

To mark Perth 800 there will be a series of civic events – from a Royal visit to receptions for representatives from our twin cities, international partners and organisations with an association with Perth.

The Economy

With regards to the Economy theme, the aim is to promote the area as a dynamic place for business. There will be a key role for the Chamber of Commerce and specific sector initiatives in areas such as food and drink as well as opportunities to build on Perth’s status as Scotland’s first Cittaslow city.

While the programme is in an early stage of planning there have been many suggestions forthcoming and it is heartening for the Steering Group to see creative ideas and the obvious pride in Perth that exists. Marketing and communications activities, including the production of a visual identity for Perth 800, are also in development and key to the success of Perth 800 will be engagement with local communities, businesses and organisations and above all the people of Perth and Kinross with their potential to be champions for our area.