Work will begin in April to transform the UK’s Inverness Castle into a tourist attraction celebrating the spirit of Scotland’s Highlands, the Northern Times has reported.

Inverness Castle to become major attraction

Built on a hill overlooking the River Ness, the property is currently the base for the city's courts service. However, as the tribunal service prepares to leave its home of more than 180 years for a new purpose-built justice centre, the castle will be revamped as a base for galleries, restaurants, bars and cafés.

Initial work will begin with applications for listed building consent, building warrant, demolition warrant and a change of use between March and June.

The contract for enabling the project, including demolition, asbestos surveys, timber preservation surveys and structural checks, will go to tender in May, while the main construction is expected to begin by early summer next year.

Highland Council, which is leading the project, hopes work will be completed by 2025.