A £270,000 revamp of one of the most popular dolphin-spotting destinations in the Highlands has been completed.
Every year, more than 120,000 people flock to Chanonry Point at Fortrose to catch a glimpse of the majestic mammals.
Its growing popularity meant that the car park at the end of the narrow peninsula can often become congested, so Highland Council agreed an upgrade plan last year.
Work got under way in December of on a refurbishment of the existing car park area, including the provision of disabled parking spaces, cycle stands and new seating.
The revamp was carried out despite Fortrose and Rosemarkie Community Council questioning the level of investment at the time, saying “it seems a an awful lot of money to spend on a car parking area”.
But the project – which has now been completed – was backed by the Whale and Dolphin Conservation Society.
The local authority also said yesterday that it had received “very positive” feedback.
A council spokesman said: “Coastal tourism and wildlife watching represent a very substantial sector within the Highland tourism industry and Chanonry is one of the jewels with many thousands of people visiting every year to watch the resident Bottlenose dolphins.
“We worked closely with the community over the £273K Channory Point improvement works and feedback has been very positive.
“The car park has been refurbished with provision for disabled parking, cycle stands and new seating.
“There is now a clearer route between the car park and the existing all-abilities path leading to the Point and information on the wider locality which we hope will help visitors to better understand the area and encourage them to extend their stay on the Black Isle.”
