Inverness Castle tourism transformation project unveiled
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Highland Council has released five artists’ impressions of how the buildings at Inverness Castle may be transformed as the site is developed into a major new visitor attraction.
It will be a "sustainable, viable and must-see attraction that will celebrate the spirit of the Highlands", according to the local authority.
Proposals for the transformation will include the creation of a one-storey building to link the two towers of the castle and create new opportunities to maximise the views from the west side (river side) of the building.
Images show the proposed new one-storey building, as well as the proposed new access from this building on to the river terrace on the castle’s west side.
A well which was all that was left of the former castle – which occupied this site until it was destroyed in 1746 – will be preserved and incorporated into the new part of the building.
All proposals are subject to approval through the statutory planning processes.
In addition to the changes shown in the images, the former main entrance to the castle, behind Flora MacDonald’s statue, will be reinstated after having been closed for decades.
It will lead into a foyer, also reinstated, that recreates the former grandeur of the original building. Access to all areas of the building will be improved.
The grounds of the castle will become an outdoor space that can be enjoyed throughout the year.
The transformation of the castle is supported by a £15 million Scottish Government investment through the city-region deal.
The council says it will create a gateway for Highland tourism, contributing to a reinvigoration of tourism across the area and providing much-needed investment for the industry as it recovers from the Covid-19 crisis.
