Extension Granted for Ironworks Demolition
Developers have been granted additional time to demolish the Ironworks music venue in Inverness, more than three years after its closure.
Ironworks was the city’s only purpose-built entertainment venue of its kind, hosting performances by artists including Calvin Harris, Biffy Clyro, and Babyshambles.
The venue closed in February 2023, with the owners planning to redevelop the site on Academy Street. Planning permission for a hotel had already been secured.
Upland Properties Limited requested a further three years to commence the redevelopment project, a request approved by Highland councillors on Tuesday.
Planning permission was granted for a 155-bedroom hotel on the site; however, no construction work has begun and the music venue remains standing.
Council Decision and Reactions
Members of Highland Council’s south planning applications committee agreed to extend the deadline by three years.
Scottish Conservative councillor Isabelle MacKenzie described the vacant site as a "blot" on the city and "detrimental" to surrounding developments.
"It is not doing us any favours," she said.
A planning officer noted there is interest in the site and that discussions are at an "advanced stage."
Labour councillor Michael Gregson initially proposed limiting the extension to just one additional year but withdrew his motion after discussion.
SNP councillor Ken Gowns consented to the three-year extension, albeit with a "great deal of reluctance."
Upland Properties Limited now has until 2028 to begin the development project.
Final Performances at Ironworks
To mark the venue’s final days, two sold-out shows were held.
Glasgow alternative rock band Twin Atlantic headlined the first of these gigs, followed by Highland-based indie folk band Elephant Sessions the next night.
Both acts have strong connections to Ironworks, with Twin Atlantic making their 13th appearance at the venue.
