A work-in-progress flood alleviation scheme in Inverness is already delivering benefits to those in the area, the Highland Council has confirmed.

Already, as many as 800 homes and 200 businesses, which are located behind constructed flood walls, have been left protected from recent high tides and stormy weather, when extensive flood damage could have occurred.

Works on Phase 1 of the flood scheme are being undertaken by contractor Morgan Sindall, while McLaughlin and Harvey have been appointed for Phase 2 of the project. It is understood that work on the infrastructure will continue over the Christmas period, but steps will be taken to keep disruption to a minimum.

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The Council has said works are on track to be completed in late spring 2015, but unforeseen issues, such as service infrastructure or severe weather, may affect progress.

Councillor Thomas Prag, Chair of The Highland Council's Development and Infrastructure Committee, commented: "There have been at least three occasions in the past year, when the combination of high rainfall and high tides could have in the past caused flooding to homes and businesses near the river in the city centre and perhaps millions in damage and disruption. It is clear that the defences are already doing their job very efficiently.

"We are now beginning to see the quality of the walls and finishes above ground as the heavy engineering underground gives way to the things we can see. Perhaps most importantly we can begin to get an idea of the streetscaping work being done between Ness Bridge and Friars Bridge.

"With all the excavations and upheaval it will be fantastic to open up our vastly improved riverside walkways for folk to linger and enjoy."

(JP/CD)