Refurbishment and upgrading works on the Pitlochry Dam at Loch Faskally are to be carried out by Scottish and Southern Energy, Scottish Ministers have decided. The refurbishment is needed to prevent extreme flood surcharge levels.

There will be no change in the operation of the hydro scheme and no increase in the impoundment height of Loch Faskally as a result of the works.

Mid-Scotland and Fife Tory MSP Murdo Fraser welcomed the decision, adding: “This work is clearly good news for the local area. I want to see Perthshire be secure against any future flooding problems and this is a step in the right direction.

" However, I believe that Perthshire needs further flood prevention schemes as we have witnessed flooding in the local area in recent years during both the summer and winter seasons, underlining the unpredictable nature of our weather. Our area relies on tourism and it is clear that any flooding will damage this industry in Perthshire. We cannot let this happen and we must be prepared for the future.”