For over 14 years, The Ironworks in Inverness has been at the heart of the music scene in the Highlands of Scotland.
The purpose built venue has a state of the art set up as well as a highly skilled, dedicated and passionate team behind the scenes.
In 2020 a controversial plan by developers was submitted to demolish the Ironworks to make way for a multi-million pound hotel. Sadly on 18th August 2022, Highland Council buckled and gave developers the green light and the Ironworks building as we know it at 122b Academy Street will be demolished in early 2023.
Over the years, Ironworks has brought some of the highest profile global artists and bands to Highland and Islands audiences. Artists from across the world have performed on the Ironworks stage including P.I.L, Van Morrison, Biffy Clyro, Babyshambles, Mumford and Sons as well as showcasing local talent and grass roots acts.
Ironworks is so much more than just a live music venue, opening their doors for charity, private and public events, to working with partners on a range of training, accessibility, job coaching and skills development programmes. Ironworks brings clear financial and social benefits to the local economy through their shows, events and workshops etc.
It also benefits wider communities throughout the Highlands and Islands as touring artists use Ironworks as a base to take their tour to areas that would have been otherwise not viable. It’s the beating heart of of the highland music scene.
The Ironworks is a venue that we hold close to our hearts, not just because of the gigs and memorable nights out but we developed good friendships with those who have worked there past and present. It’s more than a music venue, it’s a community.
There are more magical shows to come at Ironworks including their grand finale at Academy Street with what we are sure will be a very special and emotional show from The Elephant Sessions. For all future shows and ticket details visit: www.ironworksvenue.com
This is an updated version of an article originally published on 26 January 2021.
All photos by Al Donnelly and Jamie Macdonald as indicated.
