It has had a facelift – now it’s time to take a look at the back end of things.
The final phase of major repairs on one Inverness’s townhouse is to get underway within months as plans for the £2.3 million project are launched.
The 1882 landmark has already undergone £4.2m of renovations to both the west wing and the frontage, as part of the three phase project announced by Highland Council.
The application for phase three of the project has been submitted to the planning committee, proposing refurbishment of both the remainder of the building on Castle Street and the rear and is expected to begin in June.
Jason Kelman, principal project manager at Highland Council and manager of the development said: “Phase three of the works are planned to start in June 2018 and will be on site for two years.
“This phase will complete essential external fabric repairs to the remaining sections of the Town House which will include roof repairs, window replacements, stone replacement and repairs.
“The contract is currently out to tender and will be returned at the end of April.
“The first two phases have been very well-received and I am looking forward to seeing the remainder of the building completed to the same high standard.”
The Victorian Grade A-listed building was opened to the public for the first time for a weekend in February, following its two year renovation.
Councillor Bet McAllister for Inverness Central added: “I am absolutely delighted. What we have done so far, everyone is talking about it.
“I haven’t heard anyone say we shouldn’t have done it. We have just got the bits going up Castle Street and into the car park to be done.
“The workmanship has been unbelievable. I can’t wait for the next phase but I don’t think it will be as tough as the work that has just been done.”
The project has been funded by the Inverness Common Good Fund and Historic Environment Scotland.
A spokeswoman for Highland Council said: “Works will continue on the Town House up its Castle Street side on the final and third phase.
“The Town House phase three works were agreed in June this year (2017) when the Council agreed to proceed to tender for a £2.3 million project to refurbish the remaining sections of the Town House. Phase three works will include full stone repairs and replacement, mortar re-pointing, guttering and window repairs and replacement.”
