SNP Plan Offers Lifeline for Perth Libraries Facing Closure

Hey, listen to this about Perth and Kinross. The council will vote soon on library funding. They might approve a £1 million rescue. It would support five libraries facing closure.

The SNP wants to give money to Culture Perth and Kinross. They propose £500,000 next year. Another £500,000 would follow the year after. This money keeps libraries open in certain areas. Scone, Auchterarder, Alyth, Birnam, plus Comrie need help.

Local residents are being asked to help too. They should work with culture groups and the council. Together, they will find ways to sustain these libraries. This ensures they’re stable for years to come.

Also, council tax might increase quite a bit! It could rise by 10% next year for everyone. A Band D property pays £11.70 more each month. This starts in April 2025.

The SNP also suggests funding road mowing. Garden waste permits will stay the same price too. This covers 2026/27 and 2027/28. Laing said tax income is higher than they thought. Scottish Government funding also looks good, which helps.

Laing admits other groups have good ideas. They are working together on spending. He says it’s a big responsibility for them. The council meeting starts Wednesday at 9:30 a.m.