Craig Dunain psychiatric hospital fire probed

A POLICE investigation has been launched into a blaze which badly damaged a derelict building at the former Craig Dunain psychiatric hospital in the Leachkin area of Inverness.

A fire was discovered at Craig Dunain shortly after midnight. Picture: TSPL

Two units from the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service were called out to the fire at the derelict building, Tigh an Uilt, shortly after midnight.

A fires service spokesman said: “When crews arrived the building was well alight. Firefighters used four main jets to tackle the fire, which they had extinguished by 1.15am. They also used thermal imaging cameras and spent until 3.15am damping down the area.”

He added: “The incident is now under investigation by Police Scotland.”

A Police Scotland spokesman said: “The building was well ablaze. The fire was subsequently extinguished, but not before considerable damage was caused to the building. Due to the extent of damage caused, entry into the building has not yet taken place to establish the cause of the fire. At this time, the area surrounding the property remains secure with a Police presence in place.”

He added: “Police Scotland are appealing for any person who may have been in the vicinity of Tigh an Uilt, Leachkin, Inverness at the time of this incident, or who may have any information regarding the fire to contact them by phoning 101.”