More funding has been awarded towards an ambitious plan to form a path celebrating the marine heritage of Inverness, which will link the city centre and its port.
Inverness Harbour Trust has received support from Sustrans Scotland for the next stage in the development of the Inverness Maritime Heritage Trail.
The new route for cyclists and pedestrians will lead from Inverness Marina, past the port and along Shore Street into the city centre.
The increasing number of tourists visiting the “maritime quarter” of the city, along with the considerable number of commuters cycling to work, has prompted the plans for a dedicated route.
Funding has been secured to take forward the proposals developed last year by Inverness Harbour Trust, Sustrans Scotland and Highland Council.
In addition, the aim is to improve the cycling and walking experience along this section of Shore Street, Cromwell Road and Longman Drive.
The stretch also forms part of the National Cycle Network Route 1 – from Land’s End to John O’ Groats – and is popular with people who cycle into the city for work.
Port chief executive, Sinclair Browne, said: “We are honoured to receive further support from Sustrans Scotland to develop this exciting project which will be to the benefit of not only Inverness but the wider Highland region.”
It is likely that public consultation will take place in the first quarter of 2020.
Along with the heritage trail proposal, the Port Authority wants to see more development at Harbour Gait, the extensive area of foreshore which they own out towards the Kessock Bridge.
The authority also wants to attract more cruise ships to Inverness and is specifically targeting smaller expedition-sized vessels.
Simon Strain, infrastructure manager for Sustrans Scotland, said: “The port of Inverness is part of the city’s industrial heritage and a gateway to the city and the Highlands as a whole.
“We are pleased to be involved in a project which encourages people to see a new side to the city or to go on to explore Scotland through the National Cycle Network.
“We look forward to seeing the detailed proposals from Inverness Harbour Trust and hearing feedback from local residents and visitors.”
