Step closer for final phase of Town House refurbishment

Members of the City of Inverness Area Committee have agreed in principle to accept the tender costs for the third and final phase of the Town House refurbishment project which will see the completion of restoration works to the historic A listed building in the centre of the Inverness and secure its future for generations to come.

The lowest tender has come in at £3,304 million and will include full stone repairs and replacement, mortar re-pointing, roof repairs, guttering renewal and window repairs and replacements to all sections of the building not part of the first two phases.

The Inverness Common Good Fund owns Inverness Town House.  The refurbishment works covered by Phase 1 and 2 have been funded by the Inverness Common Good Fund and Historic Environment Scotland.

The Provost, Cllr Helen Carmichael welcomed the support of the Committee to press on and finish the works.  She said: “The Town House is a terrific asset of the Inverness Common Good Fund and we have a responsibility to maintain it in a good and safe condition so it can continue to play an important role in the life of our city.

“The first 2 phases were delivered on time and on budget and have made a huge difference to the look and structure of the building. When the wrap covering the front of the building was removed last year at the completion of Phase 2 the effect was eye-catching. Anyone passing couldn’t have failed to notice the stunning new look building emerging and feedback has been very positive.

“The final phase of the restoration is in sight and I look forward to seeing how it complements the terrific work already carried out.”

Now the tender for the final phase has been given the thumbs up by the City Committee, it will go to the Full Council for final consideration. Meanwhile an application for funding support from Historic Environment Scotland has been submitted. To date funding to the value of £0.800m over the first 2 phases has been secured from the organisation with the remained of costs coming from The Inverness Common Good Fund.