Transformation of Raining Stairs

Provost Helen Carmichael has opened the doors to more than a dozen new homes as part of the transformation of one of the city’s landmark areas.

The Raining Stair development features 16 new one- and two-bedroom flats as well as a small retail unit, with six available at an affordable rent and the remaining 10 being leased under a mid-market rent from the Highland Housing Alliance.

The redevelopment of the former derelict land, which was named after John Raining, the founder of the school which was built at the head of the Stairs in 1747, was part of the city region deal.

Funding for the venture was provided by the Scottish Government, Highland Housing Alliance and the Highland Council.

As she cut the ceremonial ribbon to signify its official opening, the provost said: “The Highland Council would like to thank everybody involved in this project which has transformed and regenerated a derelict area, providing the highest quality affordable housing whilst creating an extremely attractive entrance to the city centre.

“The collaborative approach between the private sector, through Ark Estates, the Scottish Government, the Highland Housing Alliance and the Highland Council has overcome all the obstacles to deliver an exceptional project on one of the most difficult sites in Inverness.”

William Gray of project developer Ark Estates, said: “We are delighted at the successful completion of what has been one of our most challenging projects.”