Plans have been approved to establish Scotland's first purpose-built Justice Centre in Inverness.

With the £23 million scheme's updated designs being given the go-ahead by Councillors, Robertson Northern is expected to begin construction in November. Completion of the main building works is scheduled for 2019.

The facility will be built on the site of a former bus depot on Longman Road, adjacent to the Police Headquarters in Inverness.

The Scottish Courts and Tribunals Service (SCTS) said the updated design is more efficient in the use of accommodation and provides an attractive public space, along with improved access.

It added the location of the justice centre will also help transform the surrounding area, with the transfer of Inverness Castle to council ownership stimulating economic growth for the city as it works in partnership with the Scottish Government and other public bodies to develop a major tourism attraction.

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Eric McQueen, SCTS Chief Executive said: "Rather than simply a replacement sheriff court building, the justice centre will play a pivotal role in changing victims', witnesses' and offenders' experience of the justice system, while providing high quality secure criminal courts, and flexible accommodation for our civil courts and tribunal users.

"By bringing together the right organisations, we can all focus on problem-solving approaches to reduce reoffending and increase the opportunity for community sentencing, while providing the facilities and technology to remove the need for children to appear in court and in the longer term, digital case management for summary crime."

Justice Secretary Michael Matheson said: "Today's (19 September) decision brings us a step closer to providing new facilities in Inverness to deliver a truly 21st century service. It reflects the Scottish Government's commitment to deliver a justice system that is accessible, modern and fit-for-purpose.

"By co-locating the court with other justice partners, the people of Inverness and the wider highlands have access to modern facilities and co-ordinated support and service from the relevant organisations."

(LM)