£1.5m funding for Victorian Market in Inverness stalled due to councillors' concerns
Inverness councillors baulked at allocating £1.5 million to rejuvenate the Victorian Market without a satisfactory business case.
Proposals for a new-look market hall area include creating a central event space, grouping similar retailers together in themed zones and possibly opening until 10pm were put before councillors yesterday.
But they chose not to back the plan and called on council officers to do more work on it, including providing more clarity on what they will get for the money.
Plans indicated the layout would be changed to accommodate 15 new units – eight fewer than at present – and show off more of the building’s interior architecture.
And the aim was to transform the building into a modern, vibrant attraction and draw more people into the city.
Highland Council leader Margaret Davidson conceded that an investment was badly needed in the market but argued more details were needed.
“In my scrutiny role as a councillor, I don’t think there is enough detail or information contained in the papers about the business case," she said.
“I’d like a recommendation included to bring forward a clear business case so we can satisfy ourselves about where the money will go over the years.”
Councillor Andrew Jarvie said the investment would have to “generate a financial return” as it would clear out such a large proportion of Inverness Common Good Fund cash.
Despite arguing that pressing ahead as quickly as possible was essential, Councillor Ron MacWilliam said he could not agree to the financial outlay “in the absence of a formal business plan”.
Inverness Provost Helen Carmichael concluded there were questions than answers.
Fresh proposals are likely to go before councillors in November.
Related article: Bold plan to give Victorian Market in Inverness a £1.5m facelift