Transport Scotland has said plans to upgrade the Kessock Bridge on the A9 has entered a "critical phase".

The government agency added that work to make the structure completely waterproof, was subject to weather conditions, and once that task was completed, it would give a clearer indication of when the works will be finished.

The roadworks are expected to be completed sometime in June.

The project began in February, but its contractors have already had to work in high winds and poor weather conditions.

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The Kessock Bridge is currently being resurfaced and upgraded as part of a £13m programme of improvements.

A spokesman for Transport Scotland said: "Works have now entered a critical phase where waterproofing is being carried out and this is very much sensitive to weather conditions.

"Once this is completed, we will have a clear picture of an expected date for final completion and traffic management being lifted.

"Transport Scotland fully expect Balfour Beatty to complete the works in advance of the main summer tourist season, avoiding further peak time traffic delays."

State-of-the-art materials are being used on the project so that major work will not be required for another 30 years.

(JP/CD)