Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) has approved an additional £863,000 contribution to the Inverness Castle Experience project, bringing their total investment to £2.863 million.

The project, led by The Highland Council and part of the Inverness and Highland City-Region Deal, aims to transform the castle into a world-class visitor attraction showcasing Highland landscapes, culture, Gaelic language, and communities.

This further funding will enhance the visitor experience, and the project is expected to create 82 direct and 480 indirect jobs across the region.

"The Inverness Castle project is progressing at pace and set to deliver substantial economic and social benefits well beyond Inverness," said Audrey MacIver, HIE area manager for Inner Moray Firth. "We are pleased to provide additional funding to further enhance features in the castle, which is set to open later this year. We look forward to continuing our collaboration with The Highland Council and High Life Highland on this transformative initiative.”

-- Advertisement --

Cllr Ian Brown, Leader of Inverness City and Area and Co-chair of the Inverness Castle Project Delivery Group, said: "This is an exciting time for the Highlands. The Inverness Castle Experience will be a key attraction for visitors and this additional investment is helping us strengthen the visitor experience. The Castle will showcase the spirit of the Highlands, celebrating our stories, culture, and heritage in a way that will leave a lasting impression on all who visit."

The Inverness Castle Experience, scheduled to open later this year, is supported by a £30 million investment from the Scottish and UK governments, The Highland Council, Highlands and Islands Enterprise, and other partners.

Images: LDN Architects