Transport Scotland have claimed the improvements to Kessock Bridge will halve journey times into Inverness.

Improvements to junctions surrounding the bridge are intended to provide faster access in and out of the city.

A Transport Scotland spokesman said: "The Kessock Bridge is a vital artery for Inverness and the Highlands and these works will leave important legacy benefits for the community. A modern, refurbished bridge, improved cycle ways and, crucially, vastly improved journey times for motorists once the works are complete.

"With just over a week until this project begins, it is encouraging to see the community pulling together to ensure Inverness remains open for business. We have heard examples of employers offering flexible working to staff, local maternity clinics set up so pregnant women don’t have to travel into Inverness and individuals planning to take the train or car-share to reduce the number of cars on the road.

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"Yes, there will be disruption but we are confident that our investment in road improvements and in enhanced public transport means commuters have viable alternatives to sitting in traffic queues during these vital repairs."

It currently takes about 17 minutes to drive from south of Inshes to Longman Roundabout.

Transport Scotland says this will be reduced to six minutes after the works.

Journeys from Tore Roundabout to Longman Roundabout are to be cut from 16 minutes to 10 minutes, while journeys from Friars Bridge to Longman Roundabout will be cut from 13 minutes to five minutes.

Cycle paths will also be upgraded and maintained from the Tore area, heading over the bridge to Raigmore.

Transport Scotland claims there will be almost no delays for those taking the bus into Inverness during the works.

The £13m upgrade will be carried out between 11 February and June 2013 and between February and June 2014.

(IT)