Ness Islands

Historical Background

The Ness Islands were purchased by The Highland Council (THC) in the early 1800’s for the purposes of providing a natural environment for the enjoyment of the people of Inverness, as part of a wider area including Bught Park and Whin Island they formed a public amenity for recreation and health. They were also recognised as a tourist attraction.

Their natural heritage value lies in their importance as a part of a natural corridor between Loch Ness and the Moray Firth, the wide range of mature trees, an interesting range of birds and fish, and a range of mammals which include bats and otter activity.

Ness Islands Enhancement Programme

In October 2005 consultation took place with over 100 public users through on site sampling questionnaires and self completion questionnaires at local facilities. A work shop was also undertaken with school groups. The consultation key findings then developed into a number of different improvement works for the site. These improvements included a number of works by different artists; to create a central arena area, new sculptured benches, sculptured gateway features and new and improved bridge balustrades. There has also been work done to improve the footpaths, replace litter and dog faeces bins, install new lighting and new signage for the area.

The improvements are based on identifying 3 zones in the area:

Zone one – entrances: commission three welcome gateway points which include essential information, and which are designed in their form to provide a warm welcome to users and promote the feeling of a safe, enjoyable experience in natural woodland setting, and reflect aspects of the natural heritage of the Islands.

Zone two – Islands: avoid signage as far as possible. Commission artists to create works which, while often functional (seating, bridge balustrades) reflect the natural heritage of the Islands in their forms. Focus on works in wood on the two main Islands, and works in metal (bridge balustrades) on the 2 smaller entrance bridges on Lade Island, closer to the urban environment, and reflecting the quality of the two Georgian suspension bridges that reflect the islands past.

Zone three – activity area (part of the central island) : commission an artist to develop a landform work which supports the learning activities run by the THC Rangers Service and others; integrated seating for small groups and schoolchildren, an open area for activities, the combination forming options for talks / performances. Develop portable learning and activity tools (story sacks) for the THC Rangers Service and school groups to use.

For more information please see art on the ness islands.