A Dutch architecture firm has been appointed to transform Perth City Hall.

Mecanoo's design, which will conserve much of the historic building, was favoured by the selection panel.

Other proposals were more popular with the public but the chosen architect was £3m cheaper.

Detailed designs will now be drawn up and if approved, work could start in 2019.

Perth and North Perthshire MP Pete Wishart said: "The people of Perth have been round the blocks with the tortuous saga of the redevelopment of the City Hall and this must mark the final paragraph in the last chapter of this sorry tale.

"For 12 years this prime space has sat forlornly vacant, holding back the redevelopment of our city centre.

"I am glad to see that agreement has now been reached on the way forward and the people of Perth will be watching the council closely to ensure that this project is delivered as expected and on budget."

He added: "I understand that there have been disagreements over the years about the best way forward but now that these plans are in place we should all come together to ensure that this new cultural asset for Perth is delivered."