The owner hints at new developments for the former concert venue but keeps details private.
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The Ironworks, a beloved concert venue in Inverness, has been the center of speculation since its closure in February 2023. The owner, David Cameron of Upland Properties Limited, has hinted at new plans for the site but has chosen to keep the details private for now.
This has left the community and former patrons eager for information about the future of a venue that played a significant role in the local music scene.
Background on the Ironworks and its closure
Originally, plans were set in motion for a 155-room Courtyard by Marriott hotel to replace the Ironworks, a project valued at £30 million.
However, these plans were scrapped earlier this year, leading to questions about the future of the site. Despite the closure, there has been no visible progress on demolition or redevelopment, prompting an investigation by local media.
Documents revealed that the sale of the Ironworks to Bricks Group, the developers behind the hotel project, never actually occurred. This revelation has raised eyebrows, especially since the building was acquired by Cameron’s company, which has now taken the reins of the site.
Community reactions and concerns
Local councillor Michael Gregson expressed a desire for transparency regarding the future of the Ironworks. He emphasized the importance of community involvement in any redevelopment plans, stating, “It’d be lovely to think that the public was involved in whatever the plans were.” Gregson’s concerns extend beyond the Ironworks; he highlighted the high rate of unused properties in the city center, advocating for a vibrant urban environment.
Many residents share Gregson’s sentiments, lamenting the loss of a venue that hosted countless memorable performances. Nick Laidlaw, a guitarist who frequently performed at the Ironworks, voiced his frustration over the venue’s closure, stating, “It’s extremely annoying to see what used to be such a great and important music venue lying empty.” He argued that the city does not need more hotels but rather a space that caters to diverse musical genres.
The potential for a new venue
While the future remains uncertain, there is a palpable demand for a venue similar to the Ironworks. Councillor Michael Cameron noted that the community still craves a space that can accommodate large events and foster local talent. He stated, “I think there is a demand for a venue of the type and scale of the Ironworks.” The potential for a new venue could reinvigorate the local music scene, providing a platform for both emerging and established artists.
As the community awaits further developments, the hope remains that the Ironworks site will once again become a hub for creativity and entertainment. The legacy of the venue is deeply ingrained in the cultural fabric of Inverness, and many are eager to see it revived in a way that benefits the entire community.
