T In The Park Planning Bid Lodged

T in the Park bosses have lodged a formal planning application to host this year's event at Strathallan Castle.

DF Concerts, which runs Scotland's biggest music festival, announced the move last summer as safety concerns grew over the proximity of the Balado site to a large oil pipeline.

It was initially thought that the event could operate in the grounds of the 19th-century castle with a Permitted Development and a public entertainment licence but the discovery of osprey at Strathallan meant a formal plannin application and an environmental statement was required with Perth and Kinross Council.

A 28-day consultation period will now open on the application, with a decision expected in April.

In a consultation in the local area last year, 66% of people said they feel positive about the event, 20% were opposed and the rest were undecided, festival bosses said.

T in the Park celebrated its 21st birthday last year and it was staged at the disused Balado airfield in Kinross-shire for much of the last two decades.

It is scheduled to be held from July 10 to 12 this year.

Festival director Geoff Ellis said: "We're confident that it (application) successfully demonstrates how we plan to deliver a high-quality event at Strathallan, for one weekend every July, with minimal disruption and exceptional long-term and far-reaching benefits - including a rise in tourism, excellent opportunities for businesses, economic growth and future security for Strathallan estate.

"We'd like to thank everyone that has helped us to get to this stage - whether you met with us individually or attended the public consultation meetings.

"We have listened to your questions and feedback and this has informed the final document and should answer any questions you may still have about the event."