UPDATE: Highland councillor speaks of shock after visiting scene of major flat fire in Inverness
An Inverness councillor has described his “shock” after seeing the aftermath of a blaze which has gutted a flat in the city.
Inverness Millburn councillor Ian Brown this morning visited the scene in Tomatin Road, Hilton, which is located in his ward.
Fire crews spent more than five hours battling the blaze after being called out just after 2am to the property which is one of several above a row of shops.
Several residents had to be evacuated and police inquiries are ongoing.
Police inquiries ongoing following major flat fire in Inverness
Inverness shops closed ‘until further notice’ following major flat fire
Fire crews called to Inverness house fire in early hours
Cllr Brown said the roof of the flat had collapsed and other properties in the block had been damaged.
“I am extremely shocked by what has happened,” Cllr Brown said.
“I have every sympathy for people who have been affected by this.”
He praised the work of the emergency services and said Highland Council officials had also visited the site.
The council would do whatever it could to help affected residents and businesses.
“The road remains closed at the moment,” he said. “I think it will be some time before it opens.”
Fellow Millburn councillor Isabelle MacKenzie said: “I am still awaiting details but my thoughts are with whoever is involved and has been affected by this.
“It is of huge concern if any fire like this breaks out and what the cause is.
“We all understand this needs to be looked into and people’s safety and wellbeing is of utmost importance.
“I also have huge sympathy for the businesses affected by this.”
