The Highland Council has announced that two thirds of the subcontractors involved in the transformation of Inverness Castle are based within the Highland region with the remaining, who require specialist skills, within reach of the area.

The iconic Inverness Castle is currently undergoing a transformative renovation into a visitor attraction opening in 2025. The project, spearheaded by The Highland Council has prioritised, where possible, the engagement of local talent and businesses, contributing to the sustainable development of the Highland area.

Local sub-contractors include:

• ANM Electrical, Inverness

• RI Cruden Ltd Environment Renewable Natural Resources Mechanical and Plumbing, Inverness

• UB Civils Ltd, Inverness

• Highland Tree Doctor, Inverness

• Highland Blast, Inverness

• Cameron Painters, Dingwall

• CC North, Inverness

• Artisan Plastering, Dornoch

The decision to collaborate with local subcontractors aligns with The Highland Council’s commitment to fostering regional economic growth and supporting local businesses and ensures that the community directly benefits from the castle's restoration.

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Cllr Ian Brown, Leader of Inverness City and Area and Co-chair of the Inverness Castle Delivery Group, said: "The need for us to keep recruiting and retaining local talent in the Highlands has never been greater. Whether that’s for building homes, transport infrastructure or to meet net zero targets.

"By involving residents and businesses from the Highlands, the project becomes a collective effort that resonates with the people who call this area home. This deliberate choice not only demonstrates our dedication to the community but also showcases the exceptional skill and craftsmanship available in the Highlands."

Kevin McColgan, CEO, Bancon Construction Ltd, said: "We are honoured to be leading the construction of the Inverness Castle renovation. This project has not only provided local employment opportunities but has also strengthened the ties within this community."

"The Inverness Castle renovation project is on schedule, and with the involvement of local subcontractors, where possible, it reflects the success of our commitment to be a responsible and community-oriented development."

The Inverness Castle Experience project, opening in 2025, will benefit from £30m investment to support its redevelopment from the Scottish and UK Governments, The Highland Council, Highlands and Islands Enterprise and a range of other partners.

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