Award for CGC0420 — Conservation Work Town House, Inverness.

Descriptions

An award has been made for the first phase of the following project.Designed by Matthews and Lawrie and built in 1872-82, Inverness Town House is a building of considerable architectural distinction and is a significant focal point in the centre of Inverness. It is characterised externally by its original sandstone ashlar elevations which are embellished with numerous features such as turrets, string courses, mouldings and ornate details. The stonework is of exemplary quality but it is in poor condition and a major programme of conservation and repair is required. At risk also are the roofs and rainwater dispersal systems, which require overhauling, and the windows, many of which are graced by stained glass.The Highland Council appointed a team of specialists, led by LDN Architects, to assess and define the extent of external repairs required. In conjunction with Historic Scotland, an options appraisal of potential repairs solutions was undertaken and it was concluded that the long term future of this important building can only be secured by indenting large areas of stonework with a suitable replacement. On particular facades, up to 80 % of the stones, many of which are carved, will require replacement. The estimated value of the repairs is in the region of 6 500 000 GBP, of which 4 500 000 GBP is stonework, and the project will be part funded by Historic Scotland.The Highland Council wishes to appoint a Principal Contractor who is suitably qualified, competent, experienced and capable of undertaking the project using the highest standards of workmanship so that the Town House is restored to its original splendour.The project will be undertaken in phases, commencing with the Castle Wynd façade and moving clockwise around the main High Street façade before tackling the Castle Street façade. Each phase will also contain an element of roof overhaul as well as window repair and replacement by stained glass specialists. The building will continue to be fully occupied by The Highland Council throughout the project and this will include many scheduled civic functions in the main first floor spaces.