Initial designs to be unveiled for proposed refurbishment of Northern Meeting Park and Bught Park in Inverness following successful £20m bid to Levelling Up Fund
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Designs for two major development projects in Inverness will be unveiled to the public next month.
The proposed refurbishments and developments at the Northern Meeting Park and Bught Park Stadium follow a successful £20 million bid by Highland Council to the UK government’s Levelling Up Fund.
The plans include refurbishing the existing B-listed grandstand and creating a new pavilion with a large function room at the Northern Meeting Park, which the Courier revealed has been deemed ‘not fit for use’ in a feasibility study.
The budget is set at £5.2 million although the initial feasibility study – originally commissioned by Inverness Heritage Fund/Highland Council – outlined suggestions for a £6.7 million scheme which has now moved on. A £7.1 million plan for Bught Park Stadium includes a refurbished grandstand and interactive museum of shinty.
Both projects include improved infrastructure for more events, supported by ground source heating.
The initial concepts will go on show for public consultation on June 21 at Canal Park between 10am and 3pm.
Another event will be held that evening at a venue to be confirmed.
The two schemes were part of the Inverness Zero Carbon Cultural Regeneration Project bid to the Levelling Up Fund which brought together three projects which, when combined, aim to drive the environmental, cultural, and economic regeneration of Inverness.
Work on the third project to develop a new net zero carbon heat solution in Castle Street is progressing through the feasibility phase.
Project director Fiona Hampton said the schemes would not only breathe new life into some much-loved local venues, but with integrated renewable energy sources, they would deliver economic benefits to local businesses and help to meet the government’s zero-carbon targets.
“Each of the projects will bring something new to Inverness,” she said.
“Bught Park will provide a hub for sports and leisure facilities for the future and will develop the home of the Highland’s indigenous sport, shinty.
“The work at the Northern Meeting Park allows us to preserve the wonderful listed building and to redevelop the historic home of the Highland Games.
“With the development of a new pavilion and event infrastructure, we’ll be able to welcome 10,000 people to enjoy the venue once again.”
The work is expected to begin in 2023.
UK Government Minister for Scotland Iain Stewart said: “It’s fantastic to see plans progressing for improvements at three important cultural sites.
“New and refurbished facilities and attractions will expand their use among the community; while the installation of zero carbon systems will ensure they lead the way in sustainability.”
Malcolm Macleod, Highland Council’s executive chief officer for infrastructure, environment and economy added: "These two projects are flagship projects for the continuing regeneration of Inverness City Centre through to 2025 and will lead not just to fantastic facilities for residents and visitors, but also related renewable energy schemes that will further contribute to the Council’s Net Zero ambitions.
"Please help us shape these projects by taking part in the public consultation."
World's first Highland games stadium deemed not fit for use
