Inverness is stepping confidently into a new chapter, with Highland Council setting out plans to reimagine the heart of the city.
Following years of steady progress, including the opening of the Inverness Castle Experience, the transformation of the Victorian Market, and the restoration of the Townhouse the Council is now shifting its focus toward a broader, people-first redesign of the city centre.
The vision was laid out in a new City Centre Review report presented to the City of Inverness Area Committee, and signals a commitment to improving public spaces, supporting businesses and building a more vibrant and welcoming city for everyone.
Members of the Committee have agreed in principle to back these ambitions, recognising the need to invest in the built environment and maintain momentum from recent landmark projects.
The new strategy has been developed with the Inverness Partnership and is guided by the wider City Strategy, a collaborative plan that places community identity, economic resilience and environmental improvements at its core.
With more visitors arriving by coach and rail each year, the city centre is increasingly acting as a gateway to the Highlands.
Councillor Ian Brown, Leader of Inverness City, said the moment felt like a turning point.
“With increasing footfall and a series of high-profile developments now complete, we have a unique opportunity to reimagine the city centre,” he said.
“This strategy is about creating a cleaner, greener, and more connected Inverness that reflects the pride of our community and the expectations of our visitors.”
Proposed plans include the creation of a City Centre Masterplan to help guide everything from shopfront improvements and signage to streetscape design and pedestrian access.
Other suggestions include upgrades to greenspaces such as Chapel Yard Cemetery and the area surrounding the Old High Church, creating quiet, beautiful spaces to reflect and unwind in the heart of the city.
Improved street cleanliness, better waste infrastructure, upgraded lighting and new public seating are also under discussion, small changes that make a real difference to the everyday experience of residents and visitors alike.
A pilot project focusing on the Lombard Street corridor is also on the table, and discussions are underway around relocating the Millennium Circle to make it more visible and reduce wear and tear.
Crucially, a cross-party participation group will now be established to help shape the vision from the ground up.
That group will include community representatives, heritage organisations, business owners, faith groups, and local Members, all working together to deliver realistic and meaningful outcomes within available resources.
With civic pride, smart planning and shared ambition, Inverness is aiming to create a city centre that feels as good as it looks and one that future generations will be proud to call their own.
