Go-ahead given for Inverness Victorian Market revamp

Ambitious plans to revamp the Inverness Victorian Market are to go ahead, despite concerns it could cost some traders their livelihoods.

City councillors yesterday agreed the £1.5 million restoration of the market and fish hall, although it will mean the eviction of 14 traders early next year to enable the work to go ahead.

An online petition supporting the affected businesses was heading towards 5000 by yesterday afternoon, as the Inverness city committee also agreed to increase the amount of compensation on offer.

Traders were initially told they would not have to pay rent for six months if they stayed in the market or the cash equivalent if they relocated. This has now been increased to nine months compensation for departing traders, while those returning will get six months compensation during the 10-month refit and six months free rent on their return.

The revamp, using money from the city’s common good fund, will include the creation of an events area, a restaurant/bar and retail, food and drink businesses.

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