The Highland Council has announced the Inverness East flood alleviation programme will cost £6.9m.

The news came following a public exhibition and meeting at Culloden Academy in Inverness which was attended by around 60 people.

Neil Gillies, Director of the Council’s Transport Environmental and Community (TEC) Services said at the meeting that the Highland Council has set aside £1m for the works at Smithon and Culloden.

A second phase of £100,000 of urgent works are due to be completed in March 2013 and a third phase will be undertaken during 2012/13 and 2013/14, estimated at £1m.

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A fourth phase of longer term works to reduce flood risk will cost £5.8m.

Mr Gillies outlined a number of works already completed, including the installation of a water level monitor, bank repair and stabilisation; the installation of an embankment at Tower Burn, the removal of debris, gravel and culvert screens and support and advice provided for the public.

Mr Gillies said: "The work done by JBA Consultants estimates the total cost of a flood alleviation programme for the area to be in the order of £6.9m, but that the economic benefits to the local community by carrying out this work could realise £15m savings by alleviating the potential future costs of flooding.

"The council can also apply to the Scottish Government for up to 80% grant in relation to flood prevention schemes."

Those who attended the meeting were told that public consultations would be advertised and promoted by the Council.

(IT)