Demolition of Perth building following deadly fire complete

A building in Perth has been demolished after a devastating fire that left one dead and two in hospital.

Emergency services were called to the city’s Scott Street on June 14 after a fire took hold of a four-storey residential building.

A man was pronounced dead at the scene. An eight-year-old girl and a 27-year-old man were taken to hospital for treatment.

Two firefighters also sustained minor injuries and received medical attention. Around 40 residents were evacuated and taken to a respite centre at the nearby Salutation Hotel.

Fifty-five households had to be rehoused as damage to 41 Scott Street also made neighbouring structures unsafe.

At the time, structural engineering contractors hired by the council said the building would need to be demolished.

Demolition work was carried out brick by brick – this allowed council staff and demolition contractors to rescue personal belongings from many of the properties, as well as preserving some materials from the building, including The Royal Bar’s famous stained-glass window.

A chihuahua puppy called Vilo was also rescued from the building after surviving almost two weeks in the burnt-out tenement.

The final stage of demolition – removing large steel beams and the South Street aspect of the Royal Bar – took place on December 19.

Stabilisation work on 33 Scott Street has also been completed. A cladding contractor has been appointed and will start work in the New Year.

It is anticipated residents and businesses will be able to return to the building in mid-February.

Perth and Kinross Council leader Councillor Eric Drysdale said: “We know that residents and businesses are recovering from the impact of June’s fire.

“The demolition of 41 Scott Street has, necessarily, been a painstaking process. We had to ensure public safety, protect other buildings and salvage as much as possible from the properties destroyed by the fire.

“I would like to thank all residents and businesses for their patience while this work has been completed, as well as all Council staff and Reigart for their work over the past six months. I would also like to thank the Scottish Government for their contribution of £1 million in support.

“This is a milestone in Perth’s recovery from the fire.

“Work to infill the basement of the site will begin in January and we will be considering options for how the corner should look once work on the site is completed and look forward to sharing these ideas with residents and businesses in the area.”