The Highland Council has unveiled the updated costs of the planned West Link road programme for Inverness.

The amount has rise from £34.3m to £36.6m. The local authority has said the increase has taken into account the inflation on the cost over the scheme's construction period, which is expected to be complete in 2020/21. Planning approval for the scheme was issued in April 2014, but before any construction work can commence, a public inquiry needs to be held.

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In addition to the West Link development, other projects associated with the work include the creation of a new golf course, clubhouse and practice area for Torvean Golf Club. A new sports hub has also been proposed, as well as upgrading rugby pitches at Canal Parks.

It is understood the new costs have pushed the cost of the overall project to around £55m.

Commenting on the figures, Councillor Thomas Prag, Chair of the Highland Council's Planning Development and Infrastructure Committee, said: "The costs of the West Link reported are in line with figures already given to Council previously. The project offers substantial opportunities to further enhance sports facilities and attractions for the benefit of the whole of Inverness."

(JP/CD)