Ness Walk refreshment kiosk gets go-ahead

Ness Walk

A REFRESHMENT kiosk is to open on Ness Walk after councillors gave the go-ahead at the planning committee on Tuesday.

Angus MacDonald, of Druid Temple Crescent, brought back plans for a Victorian-style kiosk after his original plans fell at the last hurdle.

He had previously been granted outline planning permission for a kiosk at the north end of Ness Walk, but the Scottish government refused to grant a Stopping-up Order, which would have restricted public access and allowed the site to be developed.

The kiosk will be situated in a planted area further south and close to the southernmost entrance to St Andrew’s Cathedral car park.

Before the kiosk opens, the applicant will have to apply to the Scottish Government for a Stopping-up Order.

Inverness Central Councillor Donnie Kerr supported the plan as he believes it will enhance the river side.

"I’m ok with this development," said Councillor Kerr.

"It will enhance the river side walk.

"We have to move with the times."

But Inverness South Councillor John Holden said he was "totally opposed" to the kiosk.

"It’s a conservation area so everything should be kept as it is," said Councillor Holden.

"This will stick out like a sore thumb."

Thirty-two objections were submitted with one of the concerns about the visual impact of the kiosk and fifty-nine letter were received in support of the application.

Councillors agreed to grant planning permission subject to conditions including the protection of trees in the area.