Controversial Highland capital hotel planning application for site which included the Ironworks music venue refused by Highland councillors
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A proposed hotel in Inverness has been unanimously refused by members of Highland Council's South Planning Applications Committee.
The site in Academy Street included the Ironworks music venue and, if it had been approved, would have required the building's demolition before construction could begin.
It was for a six-storey, 162 bedroomed hotel, on the L-shaped city centre site and the plans were submitted by Bricks Capital.
The application also included a commercial unit on the site which stretched from the Ironworks building in Academy Street through to Rose Street.
Planning officers had recommended refusal for a number of reasons including the fact the development would have a significant adverse impact on the character and appearance of the Inverness (Riverside) Conservation Area and three nearby Listed Buildings and their settings – Dunbar’s Hospital; former Farraline Park School and the Old High Church.
The reason given for the adverse impact was by virtue of the scale, mass and design of the hotel and that it would fail to demonstrate sensitive siting and high quality design in keeping with local character and the historic environment and in making use of appropriate materials.
It would also fail to make a positive contribution to the architectural and visual quality of the place in which it would be located; and it would have an unacceptable impact on built heritage resources, contrary to planning policies as well as the relevant provisions of the Inverness City Centre Development Brief Supplementary Guidance as they relate to this site.
Following today's decision Caroline Campbell, the Ironworks venue director, said: “Today’s decision allows us to move forward in delivering live music to the Highlands from our Academy Street base.
"Whilst we still don’t have long term certainty, it’s definitely business as usual for the Ironworks. I am pleased to be able to continue to sustain significant employment in the region, safeguarding 65 jobs and a much wider spend in the local supply chain and economy.
"As Scotland’s first live music venue to deliver events for 100 under new tier one guidelines, we’re excited to be announcing more upcoming socially distanced gigs today.
"Our diary is firmly open and we look forward to welcoming top talent to the Highlands, including our two rescheduled nights with Peat & Diesel next November. We’d like to thank our loyal customers and supporters who make everything we do possible and are delighted to continue bringing live music to the Highlands.”
