MSP Murdo Fraser visited Blairgowrie and Rattray as a guest of “Discover Blairgowrie” to meet with a range of local groups in the town. The event was set up by Scotland’s Town Partnership, as part of an initiative to encourage MSPs to take a day out of Recess to spend time in, work or undertake leisure activities in a town of their choice.
During the day, Murdo met Bookmark, BEPTA, Blairgowrie and Rattray Community Sports Club, Blair in Bloom, SCYD, the Community Council, the Business Association, the Ericht Trust, the Perth & Kinross Credit Union, and One Voice, amongst other groups. He also visited the Loon Braes in Rattray to view works to promote biodiversity.
Speaking after the visit, Murdo Fraser said: “I am very grateful to Steve Johnson and Lesley McDonald from Discover Blairgowrie for setting up a very busy and interesting programme of meetings and activities.
“The wide range of groups on offer demonstrates what an active community we have in Blairgowrie, with so many initiatives which are supported by local volunteers. There is a strong feeling that Blairgowrie and Rattray is a good place to live, work and do business.
“That said, there are a number of issues which need to be addressed in the town, particularly around the need for more recreational activities for local residents. I was struck when discussing local facilities with Blairgowrie and Rattray Community Sports Club that there is major issue with the lack of changing facilities for youth football teams at Piggy Lane, although a substantial upgrade to the Davie Park pavilion has recently been announced.
“There is a wider concern in the town that other parts of Perth and Kinross are seeing investment, whilst Blairgowrie and Rattray are being left behind. This needs to change.”