Ironworks boss' pride after 'fantastic' 14 years as the only dedicated music venue in Inverness with it set to be demolished after Highland Council approved planning permission for a new hotel on the site
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The team at the Ironworks has responded to today’s decision to allow a hotel to be built on the site of the well loved music venue saying they have had a “fantastic 14 years” bringing top acts to the north and supporting local talent.
Throughout the years hundreds of leading music and comedy performers and still has a packed programme running up until the new year with management encouraging punters to continue supporting the venue.
Earlier, councillors were split seven to seven at the vote with one member abstaining on whether to refuse or approve planning permission for the £30 million 155-bedroom Courtyard by Marriott hotel.
The chairman of the committee Cllr Thomas MacLennan had to cast the deciding vote and having already backed the application said he would remain consistent and continue to support it.
We’ve had a fantastic 14 years
Speaking afterwards, Ironworks director Caroline Campbell underlined the value the city’s only dedicated venue had for the community both through nurturing local talent as well as its charity work.
“We’ve had a fantastic 14 years at 122b Academy Street as the area’s largest independent music venue,” she said. “From the very start, our vision was to establish a unique and distinctive destination that music fans from the Highlands and Islands could call their own. A place they could come together, form new friendships and see some of their favourite acts.
“Over the years, we’re proud that Ironworks has brought some of the highest profile global artists and bands to Highland and Islands audiences. As a venue, we made an early commitment to ensure the local music industry sat at the very heart of what we do, building important developmental opportunities for regionally based musicians, promoters, engineers and event staff, enabling them to gain key skills and experience in a professional, purpose-built environment.
“As many of you will be aware, Ironworks is so much more than just a live music venue. We have always felt an important responsibility to make the space available as a wider community asset, from opening our doors for charity, private and public events, to working with partners on a range of training, accessibility, job coaching and skills development programmes.”
Magical Nights
But there was a sense of sadness too amidst the pride as she discussed the memories some fans will have forever.
She said: “The Ironworks has hosted some truly magical nights and it has been a privilege watching the power of live music connect people in such a meaningful way. We genuinely hope we’ve given you some of the best nights of your life and created memories that will stay with you forever.
“We expect to remain in operation until at least the end of 2022 at our current location and are still very much open for business. We will continue to promote and deliver our upcoming events with tickets remaining valid and fully protected, so please continue to book at www.ironworksvenue.com
