£800,000 revamp of Nairn Courthouse has been completed
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Highland Council say restoration works, worth £800,000, are now complete at the Category B listed Nairn Courthouse.
The works, that started in March 2019, saw the existing viewing tower replaced as well as work to the exterior of the building.
The contract for the removal and replacement of the existing viewing tower was awarded by The Highland Council to Laing Traditional Masonry Group (LTM Group).
Councillor Tom Heggie said: “This is a very professional piece of work by all concerned.
"I am particularly pleased that we have been able to refurbish the external fabric, the clock mechanism and installed an external lighting system which will enhance the appearance of the building at night-time.
"Our project manager, Laura Burns, has worked closely with all contractors and enabled the project to be completed successfully.”
Steven Laing, managing director of LTM Group said: “LTM are honoured to have been involved as principal contractor in such an exciting project. Both the contractor and project team have worked collaboratively together to ensure this prestigious landmark has been restored to the highest quality using traditional materials and repair methods.
"Now that the scaffolding is down, the new lighting scheme only enhances the level of detailing and beauty the building exhibits and we hope this national treasure can be enjoyed for years to come."
Once on site, further works to the original stonework were identified that required to be undertaken to ensure the safety and integrity of the building.
The council said that while works were ongoing the opportunity was taken to refurbish the clock mechanism, and introduce external lighting to enhance the outside of the building.
Repairs to the original Mercat Cross at the front of the building were also carried out by an experienced stone conservator.
Despite works having to follow a period of lockdown due to Covid-19, the LTM group started again in mid-June.
Finlay MacDonald, head of property for Highland Council, said: “Restoring a key heritage building in the town centre to its former glory is an excellent outcome for the local community. The complete project team have been clearly focused on getting the detail right with excellent craftmanship being demonstrated by the LTM Group.
"I am pleased that we still have the traditional skills in the Highlands to carry out such prestigious work."
Read more Nairn Courthouse news:
Progress being made on £800k Nairn Courthouse refurbishment
Work to restore iconic buildings in Inverness and Nairn to restart
