Retail Unit, 19a Union St Inverness, IV1 1QA

DESCRIPTION
Fantastic opportunity to own prestigious Victorian retail unit in the centre of Inverness. Enjoying a prominent position on the corner of Union Street, this impressive B Listed property offers a flexible space of around 209m², suitable for a variety of purposes. The building, which benefits from some exceptional period features, was designed by W L Carruthers in 1901-02. These sizeable premises are located on the ground floor of this impressive building with the benefit of a large basement space.

THE PROPERTY
This is a truly impressive Category B listed building which was built in the free renaissance style, originally for the Royal Bank of Scotland, on the original site of the Union Street U.P Church. The unit in question is located on the ground floor of this impressive three storey building and is accessible to all pedestrians from Union Street, by the principal entrance at the front via an internal ramp. The imposing ground floor façade is channelled with Moray freestone ashlar and a base of Aberdeen grey granite. Benefiting from a prominent corner site, this light and bright property, benefits from five ornate period windows. 3 facing onto Union Street with a further 2 facing onto Drummond Street. The incredible key blocked centre windows are recessed behind engaged columns with polished granite shafts. The well-maintained Mansard roof is covered with green Westmoreland slates.

On entering the property, the grandeur of the building is evident in the spacious main banking hall with a fantastic, ornate coffered ceiling. To the east of the main banking hall is a separate, smaller area which historically was used to conduct more private discussions. To the rear of this area is the access to the stairwell to the basement. This part of the ground floor was historically used as a comms area. It should be noted that there appears to have been an opening from the main banking hall into the stairwell at some point, which potentially could be reopened. The premises are an exciting opportunity to develop a retail or office space.

THE BASEMENT
Following the stairs into the basement brings you to an open hallway which provides access to toilets, staff areas and 2 storage rooms. There is an emergency escape from the basement hall to the rear of the building.

Generally, the internals of the property requires some cosmetic upgrading as the building was not reinstated after the exit of the last tenant.

TRADE
The property is not trading and is sold with vacant possession.

REASON FOR SALE
The present owners purchased the property in 2010 as an investment property, leasing to a High Street bank. This lease has subsequently come to an end and it is their desire to retire from this sector of the market that brings this stunning property in a fantastic location to the market.

SERVICES
The business benefits from mains electricity, water, and drainage. Central heating is provided via a mains gas fired central heating system with point of use electric hot water units in the kitchen and toilets.