Restoration work is to begin on the iconic mosaics at 96 Academy Street in Inverness this weekend, 22 July.

Sub-contractor The Mosaic Restoration Company (MRC) will commence preparatory work on the project, including the addition of a temporary protective layer to the mosaics.

Once completed, main contractor Laing Traditional Masonry (LTM) will carefully remove two of the three mosaics to its factory for restoration. Work to the mosaic panel on the Rose Street elevation along with replacing the missing mosaic on the Academy St elevation will be carried out on-site.


The mosaics will be repaired in tandem in Shropshire and will be reinstalled at the end of the renovation.

Chairman of the Townscape Heritage Partnership, Councillor Richard Laird, said: "I am delighted to know that work to restore these iconic mosaics is beginning. Many locals hold these mosaics in high regard and have expressed their concern for them. I particularly appreciate the attention to detail that the mosaics show. Everyone is very excited to see the restored panels eventually and it is great news they will be secure for many generation to enjoy in the future."

The historic building, owned by Cairngorm Taverns, was designed by architects Alexander Ross and Robert John MacBeth, and is an important element of Inverness' Industrial Heritage.

Sam Faircliff, Managing Director of Cairngorm Brewery Company, added: "It's very exciting to see work commence on the Mosaics. We are committed to restoring this iconic building to its former glory and will be working closely with contractors LTM to bring the full building back into use, providing a Highland showcase for Cairngorm and Loch Ness Breweries."  

(CM/LM)