Blaze-hit building will be bulldozed as structure is 'unsafe'

Dozens of Perth residents will have to be rehoused following the fire which ripped through a city tenement claiming a man's life.

- ALASTAIR MCNEILL

The Scott Street building has been declared unsafe and those living near the site will have to be found alternative accommodation while demolition work takes place.

More than 40 residents had to be evacuated from their homes as a result of Saturday's blaze and a respite centre was set up in the nearby Salutation Hotel.

Residents are also receiving support from the Red Cross.

It is expected there will now be months of disruption in Perth city centre while the demolition work is carried out.

Road closures remain in place on South Street and Scott Street while enquiries and work on the building is ongoing.

A joint Police Scotland and Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) investigation is taking place into the cause of the fire.

First Minister John Swinney, who visited the site on Tuesday, said: "I would like to express my sympathy to all those who remain affected by this tragic incident, especially the family of the gentleman who sadly lost his life. I also recognise that this is an incredibly difficult time for so many people.

"Incidents of this severity remind us of the sheer bravery and professionalism of our firefighters and other emergency services workers in putting themselves in danger to assist others. Their actions without doubt saved many lives.

"My government will work closely with Perth and Kinross Council to make sure that support is made available to all of those who have been affected by this terrible event."

PKC deputy leader Eric Drysdale said this week: "Our thoughts remain with the family and friends of the person who tragically lost their life in this terrible incident, and with all the other people affected.

"Since the fire, Scottish Fire and Rescue, Police Scotland and Council staff have been on site to ensure the safety of the wider public.