Mid-Scotland and Fife MSP, Murdo Fraser, has welcomed statistics detailing a projected population boom in Perth and Kinross over the next 8 years but has cautioned that public services must keep pace in order to meet demand.
Data stripped out and used by National Records for Scotland has shown that between 2016 and 2026 the population of Perth and Kinross is projected to increase from 150,680 to 157,468 - an increase of 4.5%. This is above the national average of 3.2%.
Across Scotland, Midlothian is expected to grow at the fastest rate, 13.3%, whilst the Western Isles is forecasted to see its population decrease by nearly 5%.
Over the same period the population in Fife is estimated to increase by 1.9%, 4.5% in Stirling and just 0.3% in Clackmannanshire.
Commenting Murdo Fraser MSP said:
“Perth and Kinross is an incredibly attractive place to live and work and it’s no surprise that the population is expected to grow by so much in the next ten years.
“Ultimately, a combination of migratory factors including inward relocation from Scotland is driving the population up in Perth and Kinross. Furthermore, unemployment is at a record low and people clearly view the area as a good fit for both their work and family life.
“Whilst this increase in population should be welcomed it’s important that vital public services like schools and healthcare are able to keep pace.
“It’s also important that the planning system is properly equipped to allow for more new homes to be built.
“There has never been a better time to live in Perth and Kinross and our growing population is testament to this.”