If passed by Perth and Kinross Council, Bertha Park, which would see 3,500 homes built along with a secondary school, ecological water treatment system and a network of paths and cycle routes, could move from the drawing board to the planning table early next year.

It would provide much-needed housing in the Fair City, with the ambitious proposal being phased over an estimated 30-year period.

Bertha Park would be developed on 333 hectares of land situated to the north of Perth.

It would be bounded to the east by the A9, Perth to Dunkeld rail line and the River Tay.

To the south, it would be bounded by the River Almond valley and escarpment which separates it from the Inveralmond Industrial Estate.

The plans would also provide up to 25 hectares of employment land within the huge site.

The development was identified as a long-term strategic development area in the Perth and Kinross Local Development Plan (LDP).

If the plan gets the green light, building will be phased over three stages.

Phase one would take place between 2017-27, phase two from 2027-37 and phase three from 2037-47.

A spokesperson for Springfield Properties Plc, which is behind the Bertha Park plan, told The Courier consultations had been carried out with some local residents in spring along with dialogue with the local authority.

“We’ve been working on an environmental impact assessment (EIA) in the form of a scoping report and we are aiming to submit a planning application in principle early next year,” he said.

“The scheme will provide a major housing development and school in north-west Perth.”

Sandy Adam, Springfield chairman, said: “At Bertha Park there will be something for everyone whatever age or stage.

“In 10 years’ time, in 30 years’ time, in 100 years’ time people will say, ‘Bertha Park is a great place to live.’

“By 2018, Perth and Kinross Council will deliver a new secondary school at Bertha Park. A feeder primary will follow.”

He added: “It is refreshing to work with a council with such vision. Planning ahead for a complete community from a blank canvas is a huge responsibility.

“Everyone involved has embraced the project as a great opportunity to do something outstanding. Momentum is building as plans take shape.

“Everyone involved is excited about the potential for Bertha Park. The location is breathtaking — there’s a stunning loch and extensive woodland.

“The homes will stand the test of time. There will be shops, places to eat, opportunities for business, leisure and education.”

Mr Adam added that it is proposed that a masterplan for the whole development along with detailed proposals for phase one will be submitted early in 2015.