The  City Centre Review report presented to the City of Inverness Area Committee outlined a renewed strategic focus on enhancing the built environment, improving public spaces, and supporting a vibrant, welcoming city centre for residents and visitors alike. 

Members of the Committee agreed to support the principle of supporting efforts to improve the built environment in the city centre.

The proposal, developed in collaboration with the Inverness Partnership and guided by the overarching City Strategy, proposes a place-based approach to urban improvement. It recognises the growing number of visitors arriving by coach and rail, and the importance of the city centre as a gateway to the Highlands. 

City leader, Councillor Ian Brown, said: “With increasing footfall and a series of high-profile developments now complete, we have a unique opportunity to reimagine the city centre. 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.” 

Key proposals include: 

• A City Centre Masterplan to guide future development, including shopfront design, signage, and streetscape improvements.
• Enhancements to greenspaces such as Chapel Yard Cemetery and areas around the Old High Church.
• Improvements to street cleanliness, waste management, and infrastructure, including lighting and street furniture.
• A potential pilot project focused on the Lombard Street corridor.
• Relocation of the Millennium Circle to improve visibility and reduce damage. 

The committee agreed to establish a cross-party stakeholder participation group, including representatives from community organisations, local businesses, heritage bodies, and faith groups, alongside Members, to co-develop City Vision options and bring forward deliverable outcomes for the committee in the context of available resources.