HIGHLANDS and Islands Enterprise (HIE) has approved a further £863,000 contribution to the Inverness Castle experience project.
The figure brings HIE’s total investment in the project to £2.8 million, with the development set to bring ‘significant’ economic and social benefits and support 82 jobs directly and 480 indirectly across the region.
Led by The Highland Council, the Inverness Castle experience is a key project within the Inverness and Highland city-region deal, a joint initiative supported by up to £315 million investment from the UK and Scottish governments, the Highland Council, HIE, and University of the Highlands and Islands.
The project involves the transformation of the landmark into a world-class visitor attraction, celebrating the landscapes, culture, Gaelic language, and communities of the Highlands, aimed at stimulating sustainable regional economic growth.
Audrey MacIver, HIE area manager for Inner Moray Firth, said, “The Inverness Castle project is progressing at pace and set to deliver substantial economic and social benefits well beyond Inverness. 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.”
Councillor Ian Brown, leader of Inverness city and area and co-chair of the Inverness Castle project delivery group, added, “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.”
