Inverness Kart Raceway faces temporary closure due to fire damage, investigation continues.
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Fire incident leads to temporary closure
The Inverness Kart Raceway has announced a temporary closure following a deliberate fire that occurred at Fairways Business Park last weekend. The incident, which involved a balaclava-clad individual driving a vehicle into nearby businesses, resulted in significant fire damage to the entrance of the racetrack.
Extent of the damage and community impact
Numerous buildings at the business park were engulfed in flames, prompting a swift response from the fire service, which dispatched six appliances to the scene. Firefighters battled the blaze for over three hours, but several businesses, including the Harry Gow Bakery and SJ Travel Centre, suffered extensive damage.
Fortunately, no injuries were reported, and the community has rallied to support the affected businesses.
Future plans for the karting track
Inverness Kart Raceway has stated that they will take the necessary time to assess the damage and work on rebuilding safely. Despite the closure, the racetrack’s automotive apprenticeship program, which engages primary school pupils, will continue unaffected. The management expressed gratitude for the community’s support during this challenging time and reassured customers that they are committed to restoring operations as soon as possible.
Ongoing investigation into the fire
Meanwhile, police are actively investigating the incident and are seeking information from the public. Detective Inspector Caroline MacKay has urged anyone who was in the Druid Temple area between PM and midnight on Saturday to come forward, especially those with dash cam footage that may assist in identifying the suspect. The authorities are keen to gather any information that could lead to the apprehension of the individual responsible for this destructive act.
Community support and resilience
The management of Inverness Kart Raceway has expressed their appreciation for the support received from customers and the wider community. They emphasized the importance of community encouragement as they work towards reopening the track. As the investigation continues, the focus remains on rebuilding and restoring the vibrant karting experience that the community has come to enjoy.
