Local Economy & Housing
Supporting retail, campaigning for more affordable housing
Like many rural areas, Highland Perthshire is in the midst of a housing crisis. A lack of housing stock means locals and particularly young people and families are priced out of the market. The town needs key workers in all sectors of the economy. Solutions will not come easily but The Trust will work towards creating a balanced community and local economy which work for everyone.
Main Priorities
- Address barriers to affordable housing
- Support and develop the retail sector
- Support and diversify the wider economy with jobs and training opportunities
- Develop and manage tourism
Priorities and Actions
Addressing barriers to affordable housing
The aim is to establish a “Housing Action Group” which will liaise with other rural communities to learn from their experiences and successes. Perth and Kinross Council, The Communities Housing Trust and Rural Housing Scotland are our key contacts for advice and support in this area.
We will continue to monitor changes to housing legislation, including regarding regulation of buy-to-let, holiday homes and second homes. Recent toughening of requirements regarding AirBnB type accommodation may reduce the usage of housing stock for the more casual holiday let but affordable housing will remain a challenging issue for some time to come.
Land is at a premium in and around Pitlochry, however we will continue to look for potential sites for new affordable housing developments to support key workers, young people and families.
Support and develop the retail sector
As a group we are always keen to encourage and support local businesses. One exciting possibility is to formalise this support by creating a ‘Buy Local’ campaign and/or a Local Loyalty Scheme.
There is a long-standing desire for additional supermarket provision in Pitlochry. Realistically this has to fall into the category of a longer term objective, due to constraints in the labour force, land availability and parking.
Support and diversify the economy
The trust will work with the businesses, local government, education and other third sector participants to ensure a nurturing environment is provided for new investment and opportunities in the local economy. We will promote trade apprenticeships with Pitlochry High School to help locals into employment without them having to leave the area. Training and work experience for local young people in sectors which are currently experiencing tight labour markets, could also boost the local economy.
In addition, attracting light industry to new industrial estates would create employment opportunities and help to rebalance the local economy which is heavily biased towards the service sector.
Develop and manage tourism
Pitlochry has a strong local tourism industry but opportunities remain to deliver greater value to the community. For many, Pitlochry is a convenient stop on a journey further north. Promoting the town as a destination for outdoor pursuits, the arts and culture would attract higher spend into the local economy.
Over the course of the year many large events take place in and around the town. The Trust is committed to ensure these providers work with the community to manage visitor impact while ensuring a fantastic visitor experience.
Make it happen! Volunteer or join us at one of our regular meetings to make your voice heard. For more information, see our Get Involved page.
