Perth landmarks will be lit up in a £12m project after the plans were narrowly approved despite concerns it is a waste of money.

Architectural lighting is one of the proposals in the Perth and Kinross City of Light Action Plan, which was approved by seven votes to six at a council meeting on Wednesday.

A petition against the plans had been signed by 1254 objectors by the time the meeting had concluded.

Samantha Smith, who started the petition on Change.org, said: "I find this absurd and the reason why is simple Perth is on its knees - the collapse of McEwen's department store, City Hall and the 'will they knock it down, won't they?' game we have been hearing about for far too long, St Paul's Church that's been closed for longer than I have been alive - that is frankly an embarrassment and an eyesore to the city.

"Don't even get me started on parking and the unfortunate suffering it has caused independent businesses on South and St Johns Street as well as many more.

"Lights are not going to fix these problems."

The petition needs to attract 1500 signatures to reach its target.

Perth City of Light Action Plan also contains gateway markers, street lighting, lighting for retail, green space and art as well as events and maintenance.

In its report, Perth and Kinross Council said: "The proposed delivery of lighting initiatives that will create a truly unique, vibrant and attractive evening scene within the city, which over time will build into an enviable display of the very best that Perth has to offer for both resident and visitor alike.

"This will allow the city to meet its ambition to take its place amongst the very best exemplars of other compact European cities.