Work to restore Inverness Town House has commenced, the Highland Council has announced.

The £4.2m project will be undertaken in three phases, over a three-year period, and will maintain the structure of the Grade A-listed building and ensure its public safety.

The first phase has been valued at £1.2m and the contract is being carried out by Laing Traditional Masonry (LTM). The works will include stone repairs and replacement, mortar repointing, rainwater goods renewal – such as guttering and downpipes, roof repairs, window repairs and replacements.

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While restorations are being carried out, scaffolding will be erected to the west and front sides of the Town House, on Castle Wynd and High Street. This will help with public safety during the project as well as allow for access for the exterior of the building. It is anticipated that the scaffolding will be in place on the front exterior of the Town House for two years; with this in mind, the Highland Council has approved a decision for a specialist building wrap to be installed on the scaffolding. The wrap will depict a full-sized image of the front of the Town House. Furthermore, ground level hoardings will also be installed, showing images of the history of the Town House.

Councillor Ian Brown, Leader of the City of Inverness Area, commented: "These essential works will help to safeguard the future of the Town House for generations to come and will secure an Inverness Common Good Fund major asset.

"I am also delighted that Laing Traditional Masonry will be employing 3-4 apprentices on this project that will help to ensure that traditional skills are passed on to future generations."

(JP/MH)