Work to restore iconic buildings in Inverness and Nairn to restart
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Plans have been drawn up for restarting construction works at Inverness Town House and Nairn Courthouse which have been on hold since March.
In accordance with national guidance, Highland Council says the contractor is following a six-step construction restart plan which will mean a “soft start” on both sites to ensure the safety of all workers.
It follows news earlier today that work is set to restart on council house building projects this week, on a similar basis.
The majority of the work at both sites will be external but as both buildings are currently not in use access for internal works will also be facilitated.
Both projects are being managed by the council’s property team, with design and supervision being provided by LDN Architects and the works undertaken at both sites by Laing Traditional Masonry.
The restoration of the A-listed Inverness Town House is in its third and final stage.
Phases one and two were spread over a three year period and included external fabric repairs as well as rot repairs and re-slating of the roofs including new lead valleys, gutters and flashings.
Phase three works involve full stone repairs and replacement, mortar re-pointing, guttering and window repairs and replacement.
The work is being funded by the Inverness Common Good Fund and Historic Environment Scotland.
Inverness Provost Helen Carmichael said: "Everyone is keen to see work start up again on the final stage of what has been a very important project to safeguard the town house building for many generations to come.
"A lot of careful planning work has gone on over the last few months in order for us to get to this stage of being able to resume work, so I would like to thank everyone involved.
"The final work needing to be completed is in sight so I look forward to seeing the team back on site."
The Nairn Courthouse project is also in its final phase.
Scaffolding ate the site will be reduced in height once viewing tower windows are installed and leadwork is completed at the clock and parapet level.
External lighting will also be installed to highlight the refurbished tower and stonework.
Two flagpoles will also be installed to the front façade of the building.
Chairman of the council's Nairn Committee, Councillor Tom Heggie, said: "The Courthouse is a much-loved building in the heart of the town.
"It’s great news that this highly skilled restoration work is to resume and I look forward to the tower being brought back to its former glory.”
Related article: Council's house building programme to resume
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