A number of improvement works to the centre of Beauly have recently been completed by the Highland Council.

The improvements were shaped by suggestions from the local community who were invited to share their opinions and subsequently consulted on the proposals.

Now that the work has been completed, the Council has issued a survey on the project and wants to hear from the local community.

The final project included a redesign of the High Street Area between the Croyard Road and Mid Street junctions, with wider pavements, improved drainage, a speed cushion/level pedestrian crossing and a one-way circulation system. The roads at the Commercial Street and Ferry Road entrances to the Square were narrowed and pavements widened, while the bus-stop was separated from the junction and pedestrian paving was extended to enclose additional parking and define the extent of the parking area.

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The roadside paving through the Square was also improved and the lighting replaced, and the footpath between Braeview and Phipps hall was improved with additional lighting to the path and parking area.

Funding for the refurbishment came from the Highland Council Planning and Development Service Capital Programme and the LEADER Programme.

Local Councillor and Leader of The Highland Council, Drew Hendry, said: "Now that the works are finished and people have had the chance to live with them for a while, we would like to find out what they think of the results. Feedback from this survey will let us gauge the success of the project and help us to shape and focus future projects in the Highlands to the best effect.

"We have distributed a survey around local businesses and online and would like as many people as possible to respond."

Fellow Ward Councillor Helen Carmichael added: "The new design and layout of Beauly Square is working well and we are very pleased with the results. The village has been extremely busy this summer so it has been a delight to see visitors and residents relaxing on the extended pavements enjoying the good weather."

Survey forms are available from Beauly Library and a number of businesses in the Square, or can be downloaded from the Highland Council's website.

The closing date for replies is the 1 September 2013.

(JP/CD)