‘Save the Spectrum Centre’ petition launched to pressure Highland councillors on Inverness city centre building’s future
An Inverness resident is urging the public to rally behind a petition aimed at persuading Highland Council to save the recently-closed Spectrum Centre.
Ruth Dunster of Smithton launched the Change.org page as a concerned former user of the community facility.
While there have already been moves by Extinction Rebellion and others to secure the building’s future as a city centre commodity for groups, individuals and organisations , Ms Dunster believes there is a need for the public to show their strength of feeling.
She said: “We can see some glimmers of hope for the Spectrum Centre. XR Highlands and Islands and Moray have set up a meeting with Community Development Trusts Scotland to investigate possible ways forward.
“But we need the voice of the public behind us to take to Highland Council, so I would ask everyone to sign our petition. It’ll only take a minute and it might make all the difference - please spread the word!”
XR HIM said: “The Spectrum Centre is a community asset worth saving and surely we all need community more than ever.
“Its city-centre location next to bus and rail links is ideal and its facilities are excellent. If a viable way forward emerges, we would seek funding for essential repairs and an accessible lift upstairs, so that it could be something really vibrant for Inverness city centre.”
The petition can be signed at https://www.change.org/Save_our_Spectrum or by visiting Change.org and searching for “Save Our Spectrum Centre!”
The petition can be found HERE
The petition text reads: “For over a quarter of a century, people’s lives have been changed for the better at Inverness’ city-centre community venue, the Spectrum Centre.
“From adult literacy and numeracy to children’s dance and drama, quiet little islands of community have helped people feel part of something and achieve their goals.
“It was also a popular venue for conferences and seminars, and its Hidden Gem coffee shop had a wonderful play area for children, where parents could get home baking and a natter.
“In August 2025, seemingly out of the blue, the Spectrum Centre closed down with a fortnight’s notice – at a time when we need community more than ever.
“We therefore ask its owners, Highland Council, to Save Our Spectrum Centre – to refurbish and re-open the building for community use. If this is not feasible, then to open a new, accessible, city-centre community space, so that community can flourish again in our city.
It is addressed to councillors at the following email addresses:
Cllr. Ian Brown, ian.brown2.cllr@highland.gov.uk, Leader of Inverness and Area & Cllr. Chris Balance, Chris.Ballance.cllr@highland.gov.uk,Depute Leader of Inverness and Area, Highland Council
cc. Cllrs. Finlay.Macdonald@highland.gov.uk, david.haas@highland.gov.uk and alison.clark@highland.gov.uk.