Highland Councillors have welcomed plans to consider a new marina at Torvean, Inverness.

The plans submitted by Scottish Canals also include associated tourist attractions and housing.

The announcement is in tandem with the construction of the Inverness West Link Road and the development of a recreational and sporting hub in the Torvean/Ness-side area announced earlier this week.

Scottish Canals unveiled their plans to senior councillors to develop the canal basin at Torvean as a medium sized marina which would create new jobs in the area.

-- Advertisement --

Two of these would be directly associated with the management of the marina, while others could include the relocation or potential expansion of existing canal-related businesses. In addition to these jobs, further employment would be created through construction activity at the development.

Around 15,000 annual visits are estimated to be made to the canal at present. If the redevelopment goes ahead, it is hoped the number could double. It is estimated that the creation of 50 berths could generate additional annual income of approximately £100,000 per year.

Council Leader Drew Hendry said: "The creation of a new marina and associated developments is a very exciting prospect and a wonderful spin off from what we are planning in the area.

"This will reinforce this area as a gateway into Inverness and a destination in its own right. There is a wonderful opportunity to maximise the potential of the canal basin and help generate more footfall to the area and stimulate economic growth for the wider City and rural economy."

(JP/CD)