Multi-million pound plans to develop Inverness Castle as a major visitor attraction are taking shape, with work complete on key stages of the project.
For decades it served as a courthouse – and now it’s taking shape as a tourist destination.
Scaffolding is slowly starting to come off the exterior of the sandstone building, which is set to open again by summer 2025.
Plans include new buildings and terraces which are on course for completion.
Highland Council’s Project Manager Jason Kelman said: “We have been progressing well, we are on programme. We have 11 months left and we are in many ways on the final stretch now.
“There is still a lot of work to do but we are confident we will have it done on time.”
Today’s castle dates back to the 1830s, but there’s been stronghold since 1057.
STV NewsNow the building’s being brought into the modern era with a number of multi-media exhibitions planned to attract visitors.
One will make full use of the Rose Window, a stained glass structure three metres in diameter, with a frame built especially to hold it in place.
Stunning views from the hilltop site will be available to everyone.
Mr Kelman said: “The area I am most excited about is the South Tower viewing platform, which will be fully accessible.
“The North Tower viewing area which opened a few years ago was only accessible by a flight of stairs but this new area will be available to everyone.”
Building work on the project is due to be completed by the end of 2024, with the visitor centre due to open by the middle of next year.
Follow STV News on WhatsApp
Scan the QR code on your mobile device for all the latest news from around the country
