Celebrating and Safeguarding the Built Heritage of Inverness
Inverness City Heritage Trust
About Inverness City Heritage Trust
Inverness City Heritage Trust (ICHT) is dedicated to protecting, promoting and preserving the historic built environment of Inverness. Through a variety of work that includes grant funding, strategic partnerships and public engagement, we help ensure the city’s heritage continues to enrich lives today and into the future.
We support the repair and reuse of traditional buildings, deliver hands-on training in conservation skills, and advocate for heritage-led regeneration. Whether you’re a property owner, a heritage professional or simply passionate about Inverness’s unique character, we’re here to help you care for historic places.
Projects
Discover some of the conservation, repair and reuse projects we’ve supported – from listed landmarks to preserving traditional shopfronts and community assets.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What types of buildings are eligible for grants?
Most of our grants are for traditionally constructed buildings within Inverness, especially those in designated conservation areas. We prioritise properties that contribute to the historic character of the city.
2. What kind of work do you fund?
We support external repairs and conservation work using traditional methods – such as roof repairs, masonry work, window restoration, and appropriate shopfront improvements.
3. Do I need permissions before applying?
Yes. You must secure all relevant planning and listed building consents before grant-funded work can begin. We’re happy to offer guidance.
4. How much can I apply for?
Grant levels vary based on the project scope, heritage significance, and available budget. Typical awards cover a percentage of eligible costs.
5. Who carries out the work?
All work must be completed by suitably qualified and experienced contractors, using appropriate materials and techniques. We may request examples of past work.
6. Can I apply if I’m a tenant or leaseholder?
Yes, with the written permission of the building owner. We can advise on what documentation is required.
7. How do I start an application?
Contact us with brief details of your project. We’ll guide you through the next steps, including a site visit and application form.
8. Do you run training events or talks?
Yes! Check our Outreach & Training page or follow us on social media for upcoming sessions.
News
It’s our birthday! 20 in 2024
Inverness City Heritage Trust was established in 2004 which means this year we are celebrating our 20th birthday. Since its inception the Trust has...
Strategic Plan 2024-2026
We have now finalised our Strategic Plan for 2024 to 2026. The plan is available to read here. There are lots of exciting developments taking place...
Could you be one of our new Trustees?
Inverness City Heritage Trust is seeking new volunteer members to serve on our Board of Trustees. The Trust currently has four voluntary members...
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Inverness City Heritage Trust
Charity to undertake the repair and maintenance needs of the buildings forming the historic core of the city and co-ordinate a programme of conservation work funded by grant assistance.
On this day in 1903 a ‘Highland and Jacobite Exhibition’ opened in the Free Library buildings on Bridge Street (now the site of the Museum & Art Gallery).
Over 1200 artifacts were displayed, including never-before-seen family heirlooms, and a comprehensive catalogue of the items was produced. This exhibition and catalogue shaped the way the Jacobites began to be seen in the Highlands, as the organisers planned to develop a permanent exhibition and attract tourism.
The original advert in the Inverness Courier promoting the exhibition promised “Unique and most interesting collection of Jacobite and Highland Relics etc. to be opened by LOCHIEL, Lord-Lieutenant of Inverness-shire”
On this day in 1834:
The architect Alexander Ross was born on this day in 1834.
Ross is probably the single most important architect to shape Inverness. He designed the Cathedral, and was responsible for the development of much of the area round about it, including buildings on Ardross Terrace, the Palace Hotel and Bishop Eden School. He was also responsible for the building of Union Street, and the Free North Church, as well as the design of various schools, churches and houses throughout the Highlands.
In addition, he held many other civic roles, was involved in societies such as the Inverness Field Club, and was Provost of Inverness from 1889-1895.
A portrait of him hangs in Inverness Town House, and the full story of his life and work is told in a book by Calum Maclean: www.invernessarchitecture.com/
Thank you very much to all the staff at the Highland Archive Centre for giving us a tour round their wonderful building this week. Such an amazing resource!
