The Highland Council has provided £150,000 towards developing designs and costings for a new Regional Sports Facility in Inverness.

The outcome of a feasibility study was presented at a council meeting on 3 September.

The study considered the capital costs, potential sources of funding, an estimated revenue budget, potential uses and interests, and the requirements of key stakeholders, partners and sponsors.

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The new centre is currently estimated to cost approximately £23.1m, with a potential £5m contribution by SportScotland.

The study also examined potential sites for the centre and recommended The Bught site option, which adds to existing leisure facilities at Inverness Leisure and offers best value in economic and sporting terms.

Councillors agreed in March to progress plans for the new development, which will incorporate indoor cycling, tennis and athletics facilities.

Council Leader Margaret Davidson said: "This project is really exciting and truly transformational for Inverness and the wider Highlands. It will significantly boost the economy, both in the development stage and following that, in bringing opportunities, visitors and money into the Highlands."

(LM)