Inverness Academy playing fields community asset transfer agreed

The Highland Council met today (Thursday 22 Sept) and agreed a community asset transfer – property disposal request on a 25-year lease agreement to Caledonian Thistle Development Trust.

The Highland Council Leader, Cllr Raymond Bremner said: “We welcome the Community Asset Transfer to Caledonian Thistle Community Development Trust (a charitable company) as it offers an opportunity to improve and develop the playing field and facilities that will benefit both Inverness Royal Academy pupils and the wider community.

"The proposal includes development of apprenticeships, training and support opportunities for disadvantaged young people and clearly demonstrates the benefits associated with community transfer. It aligns with both Council and community priorities for regeneration, health and wellbeing in the local area.”

Economy and Infrastructure Committee Chair, Cllr Ken Gowans added: “The Caledonian Thistle Development Trust proposed plans include working in partnership with Scottish Football Association, SportScotland, Inverness Caledonian Football Club and other funding bodies to make positive use of land that requires investment and enable the pitches to be utilised once again for sports and diversionary activities.

“The proposed development could offer the opportunity to develop modern fit for purpose sporting facilities, reducing barriers to allow more people to benefit from sport by either taking part or supporting through community participation.”

Members agreed the recommendation for transfer of the asset by lease, noting the Council would retain ownership, subject to conditions set out in the report being met.

The report can be read here