Inverness Castle intruders caught by Scotguard security staff are among the ‘tangible results’ of partnership, says Highland Council
Security teams at Inverness Castle have been praised after tackling intruders on the site.
Senior Highland Council figures revealed that staff at Scotguard have collared intruders during their patrols of the site.
And the local authority has praised them for their proactive approach during the “crucial” final months of construction on the site’s new visitor centre and tourist experience.
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The Inverness Castle Experience remains closed to the public, but is expected to open its doors later this year.
And a spokesperson at the Inverness Castle Experience said that its partnership with Scotguard was helping to keep this on track.
“Already demonstrating their vital role, Scotguard have deterred potential risks, with intruders apprehended on-site thanks to the vigilant response of their security handlers with a canine presence,” they said. “This robust approach is just one aspect of the comprehensive service which also includes perimeter intruder detection devices, site security officers and guard dogs, mobile patrols and K9 response teams.”
They added that the partnership with Scotguard is a key part of its “commitment to ensuring a safe and secure environment on-site in the lead-up to opening” and reflects a “proactive approach to maintaining the highest safety and operational excellence standards”.
Councillor Ian Brown, who is leader of Inverness City and Area and co-chair of the Inverness Castle Project Delivery Group added: “The safety and security of the site during this crucial phase are paramount, and our collaboration with Scotguard ensures that these priorities are upheld. From a canine presence and other security measures, their work allows us to focus on transforming The Inverness Castle Experience as we approach completion.”
Allan Maguire, head of economic development and regeneration at Highland Council, said: “Partnering with Scotguard has already delivered tangible results, including the swift handling of an intrusion on-site. Their professionalism and expertise give us confidence that the site is well-protected as we prepare to welcome the public.”
The Inverness Castle Experience project has benefitted from £30m worth of investment to support its redevelopment from the Scottish and UK governments, Highland Council, Highlands and Islands Enterprise and a range of other partners.
The Inverness Castle 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, Highland Council, Highlands and Islands Enterprise and University of the Highlands and Islands, aimed at stimulating sustainable regional economic growth.
