An emergency summit will attempt to clear the air before councillors debate a planning application for an artwork that has already triggered a 1,000-plus-strong petition of objection.
The controversial £300,000 tilting pier artwork, that could jut out over the River Ness beside Eden Court Theatre, has divided opinion among residents, visitors and politicians.
Opposing councillors yesterday forced a further debate, to be held before the summer recess.
City provost Helen Carmichael agreed to a request from the council’s opposition SNP group deputy leader Richard Laird to review the process.
She told committee colleagues at a routine meeting at the Town House that the special debate would “allow members to be advised of the progress of the project to date and to have an opportunity to discuss the development of the programme.”
There was a warning, however, that under council rules committee members who participate should not prejudge a future planning application for the artwork.
The council announced earlier this week that, due to public opposition to a previously favoured site for the artwork at Friars Shott on Huntly Street, it had decided on an alternative location outside Eden Court Theatre and that the project was definitely happening.
Some councillors have already openly objected to it on the grounds of cost.
The forthcoming meeting will also dissect the perceived undemocratic way the issue has been handled by the council-appointed Inverness City Arts working group.
Several city councillors argue that public opposition has been ignored.
Highland Alliance member Donnie Kerr yesterday agreed with councillor Laird, telling colleagues it should have been on the day’s agenda because of the extent of public concern.
The arts working group is confident the installation would reap huge economic benefits. The proposed pier is part of a wider £760,000 riverside arts initiative, part-funded by government agencies but also the council and the city’s common good fund.