Radioactive gas detected at new sheriff court

Elevated levels of a radioactive gas have been detected at Inverness' new sheriff court.

Radon is a naturally occurring gas found all over the world and comes from minute amounts of uranium in rock and soil. Exposure to high levels can cause lung cancer.

Inverness Justice Centre opened in the city's Longman area in March 2022.

Scottish Courts and Tribunals Service (SCTS) said action had been taken to deal with radon detected in three contained areas of the building and there was no risk to staff or wider public.

The issue was first reported in the Inverness Courier.

A spokesperson for SCTS said: "The safety of our staff and all who use our buildings is our primary concern.

"Elevated radon levels have been recorded in three contained areas of Inverness Justice Centre and we have taken action to ensure there is no risk to those using the building.

"We are liaising with the Health and Safety Executive and will take all necessary actions to continue to ensure the safety of all building users."

The centre has a number of justice services.

The sheriff court element had for years been carried out at Inverness Castle.

The 19th Century city centre property is being redeveloped as a tourist destination.