Castle viewpoint set to open by Easter
Free entry for the new attraction in its first week of opening to take in the views of the city
Work is underway to complete the interior of the North Tower of Inverness Castle - allowing a visitor attraction and viewpoint to give spectacular views from the top.
The view will see visitors able to see both south over the River Ness and beyond and north over the Ness Bridge towards the Black Isle.
The attraction (to be known as the Castle Viewpoint) will be opened in time for Easter - with the first week free to enter.
The Council, Inverness Common Good Fund and Highlands and Islands Enterprise have all contributed to the cost of the project, which includes new access, a shop and a stairway to the roof and viewing platform.
City Region Deal money was also made available to improve the approaches to the North Tower and Castle, which will include an upgrade of Castle Wynd.
Stonework repairs were carried out to the North Tower to ensure the 175 year old landmark is in the best condition for its transformation into a key tourist attraction in Inverness.
Provost Helen Carmichael said: “The views are spectacular from the top and I am confident that visitors to Inverness will be delighted with the Castle Viewpoint. It adds significantly to the city’s draw as a worldwide tourist destination.”
Leader of the Highland Council, Margaret Davidson added: “I am delighted that the Castle Viewpoint will be open for Easter. The first week will be free to visitors and locals who wish to get a look at how the tower has been transformed.”