The Highland Council says work on the River Ness Flood Alleviation Scheme in Inverness is progressing ahead of its temporary closure for the Christmas holidays.

The contractor will cease work between 20 December and 7 January 2013.

Douglas Row on the eastern side of the river is closed to vehicles due to the installation of a new gas main. It will remain closed until 20 December.

Work may be continued from 7 January next year if it cannot be completed by the festive shut-down.

Work is also under way at Ness Bridge junction, Castle Road/Bridge Street/Bank Street.

Night-work is being undertaken at this section to complete the permanent reinstatement of the trench excavated across the Ness Bridge junction.

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Two-way traffic across Ness Bridge is being maintained during the day.

On the other side of the river, Huntly Street remains closed to vehicles between Ness Bridge and Greig Street.

The delivery of utility services is hoped to be completed by Wednesday 19 December at the latest. Pedestrian access will be maintained through Huntly Street and all shops and businesses will remain open.

Full access along the whole of Huntly Street from Wells Street to Ness Bridge will be restored between 19 December to 7 January 2013.

Enabling works will then start on the next section of Huntly Street, between Greig Street and Celt Street on Monday 7 January. This section will be closed to vehicles. Greig Street to Ness Bridge and Wells Street to Celt Street will be open as normal.

A Council spokesman said: "While every effort will be made to minimise disturbance and nuisance, construction works will be on-going and we thank the public for their continued patience and co-operation during these essential works, required in preparation for the construction of the flood defences and streetscape enhancements."

(IT)