Opinion still divided over Inverness riverside brewery plans
FRESH plans for a previously rejected multi-million pound brewery and visitor attraction in Inverness have prompted a mixed response.
The owners of the Glen Mhor Hotel on the city’s riverside want to demolish a bar and incorporate a micro-brewery and glass-fronted restaurant.
Although the development was recommended for approval and had widespread support, it was rejected by Highland councillors in October amid traffic and parking concerns.
Owners Jon and Victoria Erasmus have now relodged the plans with a detailed transport statement, addressing the issues of traffic, parking and deliveries.
The Inverness Chamber of Commerce has welcomed revival of the project which it supported previously, saying it would be a "useful addition" to the city.
But Ness Bank Church parishioner Bill MacKenzie, who was among last year’s objectors, remains opposed to the proposed development at the Victorian building in Ness Bank.
"It is totally out of character," declared the 88-year-old of Firth View Drive, Scorguie.
"It has been thrown out and I hope it remains thrown out. The total ambience of the walk along the river will be completely destroyed."
In response, Mr Erasmus defended the decision to resubmit the plans. "We appreciate change is not always an easy process," he acknowledged.
"We are all human beings with feelings. However, for us, this is about the aspirations of Inverness. Local economies too reliant on services can struggle when conditions change.
"This is about production and exporting. On that basis, if the building meets the requirements of the local conservation plan, it should be treated solely on its merits to deliver."
The couple were "hugely disappointed" last time and given the overwhelming support they received, they felt the rejection - and the reasons behind it - sent out the wrong message to those with the investment potential and creative vision to help transform the city.
"This is an exciting time for the city and we have been hugely encouraged by the plans to open up the castle, just along the road, for tourists and locals," Mr Erasmus said.
"With all the effort and ideas being invested to create a dynamic and diverse Inverness, we hope councillors are able to take an enlightened view on the basis of the new information provided and do not act as barrier to a high quality development that will create 12 new jobs."
Stewart Nicol, chief executive of Inverness Chamber of Commerce, hoped the resubmitted plans would satisfy councillors.
"It is good to see the owners taking measures to try and address some of the concerns," he said. "I think it would be a very useful addition to the city’s tourist attractions."
