As well as providing modern court and tribunals facilities, a range of justice and support organisations will be based in the centre providing integrated facilities for victims, witnesses, litigants and other users. Specialist facilities for children and young people will be incorporated within the design.

Justice Secretary Michael Matheson, Scottish Courts and Tribunals Service chief executive Eric McQueen and Grampian, Highland and Islands Sheriff Principal Derek Pyle officially broke the ground at the start of construction, joined by the justice centre partners.

Mr Matheson said: “Today brings us a step closer to providing new facilities to deliver a truly 21st century service. Scottish Government funding of £30 million has made the project possible, reflecting our commitment to deliver a justice system that is accessible, modern and fit-for-purpose.

“The new Inverness Justice Centre will give the people of the Highlands access to modern facilities and support all in the same place, which will have a positive impact on local communities.”

Mr McQueen said: “Inverness Justice Centre is in a unique opportunity to bring organisations together, focussing where practical on problem-solving approaches to reduce reoffending and increase the opportunity for community sentencing.

“The centre will represent the changing face of justice by including facilities and technology to remove the need for children to appear in person court and to support the development of digital case management for summary crime in the future.”

Robertson Northern Ltd is scheduled to complete the main building works in 2019.