The contract for the removal and replacement of the existing viewing tower was awarded by The Highland Council to Laing Traditional Masonry Group (LTM Group) and works began in March 2019.
Once on site, further works to the original stonework were identified that required to be undertaken to ensure the safety and integrity of the building. In addition to the works, the opportunity has been taken to refurbish the cloc
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k mechanism, and introduce external lighting to enhance the outside of the building. Repairs to the original "Mercat Cross" at the front of the building have also been undertaken by an experienced stone conservator and enhances the entrance area to the Courthouse. Existing flagpoles were removed from the upper parapet, as their movement affected the stability of existing stonework. These have been relocated to the front of the building. Despite works having to follow a period of lockdown due to Covid-19, the LTM Group remobilised mid-June and made safe progress, as permitted. The works completed should see the building enhance the High Street for many years to come. The works have been project-managed by the Council’s Property Service. The project was progressed with assistance from LDN Architects, Fairhurst Engineers, McLeod & Aitken and Safehands Health & Safety Consultants Ltd. The external lighting was designed by Rybka, Inverness.
