LDN Architects has been tasked with bringing its conservation architectural experience to the transformation of the castle from its current use as a court house to a future visitor attraction.

Forming part of the Inverness and Highland City-Region deal, the project is a vital part of the regeneration of the city centre and will be a gateway for Highland tourism. The development will support economic growth in the city and throughout the Highland area.

The vision for the project includes:

• The Castle Viewpoint  - already complete and open to the public
• New galleries to bring national and international exhibitions to the Highlands
• New museum displays celebrating the culture and heritage of the Highlands
• New visitor attractions showcasing all areas of the Highlands
• Shops, restaurants, bars and cafes promoting the best of Highland crafts and produce
• The development of public spaces within the Castle esplanade
• Potential new hotel accommodation in the vicinity of the development

The architect’s brief will focus on refurbishment of the Castle, and the transformation will involve dialogue with Historic Environment Scotland, the Highland Council, High Life Highland, the people of Inverness and the Highlands, as well as many other stakeholders in the coming months.

Stuart MacKellar of LDN Architects said: “We are delighted to be involved with the Inverness Castle development, given the importance of the project to the city centre and the economic development of the Highlands. As architect for the recent improvements to the neighbouring Inverness Town House, as well as a range of other heritage projects in the UK and beyond, we are excited to be bringing our experience to bear for the castle project.”

Creative Services, led by Bryan Beattie, will lead the creative direction for the Inverness Castle project, supporting development of the identity for the new international quality Inverness Castle visitor attraction, as well as preparing a programme of events involving people living and working in the Highlands. It will also support the development of partnerships with creative producers, organisations, agencies and networks to maximise promotional and creative opportunities for the project.

Cabinet secretary for rural economy Fergus Ewing said: “These appointments mark another important step forward in progressing the development of Inverness Castle. This key project from the Scottish Government is being supported through the City Region Deal. It will help to revitalise the city centre, as well as the wider Highlands, benefiting both locals and tourists.”