Plans are moving forward on the transformation of Inverness Castle with a couple of key appointments.

LDN Architects and Creative Services have been hired to work on the project, which aims to develop the castle as a new visitor attraction.

For the architect services, LDN Architects brings its conservation architectural experience to the transformation of the Castle from its current use as a court house to a future visitor attraction. The Inverness Castle project is a vital part of the regeneration of the city centre and will be a gateway for Highland tourism. The project will support economic growth in the city and throughout the Highland area, creating a sustainable, viable and "must-see" attraction that will celebrate the spirit of the Highlands.

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The architect's brief will focus on refurbishment of the Castle, and the transformation will involve dialogue with Historic Environment Scotland, The Highland Council, High Life Highland, the people of Inverness and the Highlands, as well as many other stakeholders in the coming months.

Creative Services, led by Bryan Beattie, will lead the creative direction for the Inverness Castle project, supporting development of the identity for the new international quality Inverness Castle visitor attraction, as well as preparing a programme of events involving people living and working in the Highlands. They will also support the development of partnerships with creative producers, organisations, agencies and networks to maximise promotional and creative opportunities for the project.

Cabinet Secretary for Rural Economy Fergus Ewing said: "These appointments mark another important step forward in progressing the development of Inverness Castle. This key project from the Scottish Government is being supported through the City Region Deal. It will help to revitalise the city centre, as well as the wider Highlands, benefiting both locals and tourists."

The Inverness Castle project forms part of the Inverness and Highland City-Region deal. The City-Region deal is a joint initiative supported by up to £315m investment from the UK and Scottish governments, The Highland Council, HIE and University of the Highlands and Islands, aimed at stimulating sustainable regional economic growth.

(CM/JG)