Work is poised to commence on replacing a building at Fairways Business Park in Inverness that was destroyed by a deliberate fire last year. Building warrants have now been approved, paving the way for construction to begin on the new £432,250 development.
Key Takeaways
- Building warrants approved for the replacement of fire-ravaged outlets at Fairways Business Park.
- Construction costs for the new building are estimated at £432,250.
- The original building housed multiple businesses including SJ Travel Centre, Scottish Premium Seafoods, a bakery, and hairdressers.
- Two men have been arrested and charged in connection with the arson attack.
The Fire and Its Aftermath
The building, which housed a variety of local businesses including SJ Travel Centre, Scottish Premium Seafoods, a Harry Gow bakery, and hairdressers Hair Chic and Hair for Men, was gutted in a blaze on March 9. The fire was started deliberately after a car was rammed into the property and set alight shortly before midnight.
Legal Proceedings
Following the incident, two men were arrested. Jason Gallacher, 38, from Armadale, and Jack Ventham, 34, from Livingston, were charged with wilful fire-raising and knowingly possessing stolen property. Both appeared at Inverness Sheriff Court, where they made no plea and were committed for further examination. The case was ongoing at the time of reporting.
Rebuilding Efforts
Despite the significant damage, plans to replace the building were initiated swiftly. Highland Council’s planning officers had already approved the application for the new construction in November. The subsequent approval of the building warrant on January 7 signifies that all necessary paperwork is now in place, suggesting that construction could begin in the near future. The approved building warrant details the cost of the new build at £432,250. The design includes plans for four distinct business units, as indicated by the proposed floor plan.
