Major plans to make the Highland capital more accessible and safer will be unveiled at the end of the month.
The scheme will develop a three-mile stretch of the A82 through Inverness so that it is more accommodating for cyclists and pedestrians.
The area scheduled for the work stretches from the Longman Roundabout at the Kessock Bridge to the Tomnahurich Swing Bridge.
The plans are still being put together but according to Bear Scotland they will incorporate a new footpath and cycleway.
The focus is on improving road safety and supporting “active travel” in Inverness for residents and visitors alike.
There are further proposals that would see traffic signals at the Tomnahurich Street and Kenneth Street close to the River Ness upgraded in a move that is likely to be welcomed by locals.
They have long called for dedicated crossings in the area with high volumes of pedestrians combined with considerable traffic on the A82.
It is believed that it would “greatly benefit the community” in what largely residential area with many hotels nearby.
Local councillor Graham Ross said the development has been a long time coming saying “we have been pushing for these improvements for quite some time now.”
He said: “Particularly at the primary school and we have been trying to get crossings put in there for a while.
“It is a fast stretch of road and particularly elderly people have difficulty crossing it safely so a crossing would be good. We believe that Bear have taken on board these suggestions so we are looking forward to seeing those plans.”
He added: “The consultation is an opportunity to hear what the public wants and they certainly seem to want that so Bear will hear it for themselves or else what is a public consultation for?”
Bear Scotland’s North West Representative Eddie Ross said: “Improvement measures are being drawn up to improve both the facilities for those crossing the A82 between Longman Roundabout and Tomnahurich Swing Bridge and also for those walking adjacent to the A82 at this location. These measures will contribute to improved pedestrian safety in the city.”
He added: “We are looking forward to welcoming the public to the consultation event in Inverness in late August, listening to their suggestions and answering any queries they may have.”
The public consultation event has been set for the Cameron Youth Centre on August 30 between 11am and 7pm.
