Plans to expand the Eastgate Centre could boost Inverness nightlife

At the heart of Inverness is the city’s largest undercover shopping centre – the Eastgate, which attracts thousands of visitors every day.

The mall first opened in 1983, with 34 shops.

A £60million extension was completed in 2001, bringing a host of new shops, a new dining area and an expanded car park.

At the time it was estimated that about 500 jobs would be created.

A glass walkway was also built to link the two sections on either side of busy Millburn Road.

Now a second phase of expansion is planned to provide a multiplex cinema and more restaurants.

Councillors unanimously backed the new plans in June last year.

Artists’ impressions of the building show a new section built out on to Falcon Square, with a new entrance created into the main mall.

Eight cinema screens are planned, as well as at least five restaurants.

It is hoped that tables and chairs could be put out on Falcon Square, bringing continental-style cafe culture to another part of the city.

The building was put up for sale – complete with planning permission – by owner F&C Reit, with a £120million price tag.