‘Inverness is losing its buzz’ - petition calls for new nightclub

Calls for a new nightclub in Inverness have sparked an online petition as young campaigners say a lack of facilities means Inverness is losing its buzz.

A group of local young people, led by Innes Munro, have launched a petition calling for a new nightclub in the city.

The idea was prompted by growing frustrations over the lack of facilities for young people, which they say is contributing to the depopulation of the Highlands and a nightlife scene that’s struggling to keep pace.

Mr Munro (20) argues the city hasn’t had a “proper nightclub” since the closure of G’s in 2017.

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The petition highlights two major problems facing Inverness, stating:

1. Young people are leaving the Highlands: Too many young people are leaving Inverness for cities like Aberdeen, Glasgow, and Edinburgh - or even further afield - because there’s little here to keep them. The Highlands needs more spaces where younger generations can socialise, have fun, and feel part of a thriving community. Without this, the area is losing out on their energy, creativity and spending power.

2. The nightlife in Inverness is suffering: Nightlife in Inverness has taken a serious hit in recent years, especially outside tourist and festive seasons. Fewer young people are heading out, and the city is left with mostly traditional bars that don’t appeal to everyone. For many, there’s just nowhere exciting to go.

The group believes that opening a new nightclub in Inverness could be the spark the city needs to turn things around.

A “proper weekend spot” could help keep young people stay here, encourage others to visit, and bring new life to the local economy, says petition organiser Mr Munro, of Inverness.

“Inverness is losing its buzz,” he said. “If you’re a young person here, it feels like there’s not much going on for you.

“People are heading to Glasgow or Aberdeen for nights out, and that’s money and energy leaving the city.

“We’re not just asking for a nightclub for the sake of it - it’s about bringing life back to the Highlands and showing that this can be a place where young people actually want to live.”

He added: “The petition isn’t directed at any specific individual but rather serves as a broader message to highlight the need for a nightclub in Inverness. My goal is to gather as many signatures as possible and gain attention to demonstrate to potential investors that Inverness is not just a tourist destination but also a vibrant, year-round business opportunity.”

Another member of the group added: “You go out in Inverness now, and it’s all the same vibe - traditional music bars or pubs that are dead by midnight.

“There’s nothing wrong with that if it’s your thing, but there’s nothing for people who want something more modern. A nightclub would change the game and give us somewhere to actually enjoy ourselves.”

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