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Inverness Unveils Ambitious Decade-Long City Centre Revitalisation Plan

  //business-finance.news-articles.net/content/202 .. decade-long-city-centre-revitalisation-plan.html
  Published in Business and Finance on Sunday, February 8th 2026 at 19:55 GMT by BBC
      Locales: Scotland, UNITED KINGDOM

Inverness, Scotland - February 9th, 2026 - Highland Council today unveiled a comprehensive and ambitious plan to revitalise the city centre of Inverness, marking the beginning of a decade-long transformation aimed at securing a vibrant and sustainable future for the Highland capital. The Inverness City Centre Revitalisation Plan, a culmination of extensive review and public input, addresses long-standing challenges related to congestion, accessibility, and aesthetic appeal, promising a more 'people-friendly' Inverness for residents, businesses, and tourists alike.

The plan, commissioned by Highland Council, isn't simply a cosmetic upgrade. It represents a strategic vision for the next ten years, moving beyond short-term fixes to tackle the root causes of decline in traditional city centres - issues experienced by many urban areas across the UK and beyond. A key element of this strategy is a significant shift in prioritizing pedestrian and cyclist access. Several streets will be fully or partially pedestrianised, creating safer, more attractive spaces for shoppers and leisure seekers. This isn't about simply closing roads; it's about reimagining the urban landscape to encourage foot traffic and support local businesses.

Beyond pedestrianisation, the plan emphasizes a radical overhaul of the city's transportation infrastructure. While acknowledging the need for vehicular access, the document outlines a robust network of improved bus and cycle routes designed to ease congestion and promote sustainable travel. These routes will be integrated with upgraded pavements and enhanced street lighting, creating a seamless and safer experience for all road users. The Council anticipates a measurable decrease in private vehicle usage within the city centre, thanks to the increased viability of alternative transport options.

But the vision extends beyond just movement. The Revitalisation Plan also prioritises the creation and enhancement of green spaces within the city centre. Small 'pocket parks' are envisioned in currently underutilised areas, and existing parks will receive significant investment to improve amenities and biodiversity. This focus on greenery isn't merely aesthetic; it's recognized as crucial for improving air quality, enhancing wellbeing, and creating a more welcoming environment.

Council leader Rachel Mackenzie hailed the plan as a landmark achievement. "This plan is a significant step forward in securing a bright and sustainable future for Inverness," she stated. "It will help us to create a vibrant and attractive city centre that is a great place to live, work and visit. We've listened to the concerns of residents and businesses, and this plan reflects a shared vision for a thriving Inverness."

The need for such a plan was underscored by a recent review of the city centre, which identified a number of critical challenges. Traffic congestion was highlighted as a major impediment to both pedestrian flow and business activity. The lack of adequate pedestrian space was cited as contributing to an unwelcoming atmosphere, while deficiencies in public transport links discouraged residents from utilising the city centre for commuting and leisure. The review also pointed to a general need for visual improvement to attract both tourists and investment.

The project carries a multi-million-pound price tag, and funding is anticipated to come from a combination of sources. The Scottish Government has already indicated its support, and Highland Council has committed a significant portion of its budget. Further funding will be sought through strategic partnerships and potential private investment. A detailed breakdown of the financial plan will be released alongside the full documentation of the Revitalisation Plan.

The next step in the process is a comprehensive public consultation, scheduled to begin in the coming weeks. Highland Council is keen to gather feedback from residents, businesses, and community groups to ensure that the plan fully reflects the needs and aspirations of the Inverness population. Several public forums, online surveys, and workshops will be organised to facilitate this engagement. The council intends to be flexible and responsive, willing to refine the plan based on valuable input received during the consultation period.

Looking ahead, the Inverness City Centre Revitalisation Plan represents not just a physical transformation, but a commitment to building a more resilient, sustainable, and thriving community. It's a bold vision for a Highland capital poised to embrace the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century, and it sets a precedent for other Scottish cities looking to revitalise their own urban cores.