Eden Court in Inverness will respond to demands of Highland councillors

Eden Court will create a new business plan following a Highland Council meeting this week.

Councillors called for a more formal approach to funding arrangements following a report from auditors.

Bryan Beattie, interim chief executive of the Inverness arts venue, said: “The theatre is very happy to align its current budget preparations with the creation of a new business plan that reflects the reality of a post-pandemic theatre operation, and would be delighted for this to inform a service level agreement with the council.”

A council spokesman said: “Both the council and Eden Court are proud that Scotland’s largest arts centre is located in, and services, the Highland community, raising the profile of the area nationally and internationally. The council’s annual investment in Eden Court contributes to investment in the whole Highland economy in employment, goods and services, with an independently estimated economic impact of £6 million per annum.”

Both the council and Eden Court say they will explore ways in which elected members from all parts of the Highlands can be made more aware of the benefits and involvement their constituents currently enjoy with the theatre, and of its significant social, cultural and economic impact.

Related article: ‘Eden Court has to start paying its way’ – Highland councillors give new chief executive six months to deliver new funding agreement

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