Activity bar with axe-throwing in Highland capital wins planning approval
A new four-storey pub with axe-throwing as one of the attractions has been given the go-ahead by planners.
As reported back in February, business partners Taran Campbell and David Montgomery wanted to base the 27-31 Academy Street venture on “competitive socialising” with an array of games attractions inside.
They have now gained approval to make a significant investment at the former Ponden Home Interiors premises, creating Playback bar with two outside roof terraces for dining and drinking.
Mr Campbell, who also runs Infinity Trampoline at Telford Retail Park in Inverness and in Cardiff with Mr Montgomery, wrote on social media: “The Highland Council are certainly a thorough group, which makes this (nervously awaited) approval all the sweeter.”
Under strictly-controlled conditions, the “sober pursuit” of axe-throwing would enable customers to sling at targets tomahawk-style in a special cage under close staff supervision.
A second premises on Queensgate formerly occupied by Highland Hospice would also link to the new bar to expand space and create an alternative entrance.
The basement of that shop space would effectively create a four-storey premises.
Mr Campbell has said the venture, featuring three different bars inside, could create up to 30 jobs and hoped to have it ready for opening this summer.
Among the other attractions would be self-service beer taps, shuffleboard, beer pong and more traditional games like darts, pool and table-tennis.
There would be three bars on different levels and self-service beer taps.
