The Highland Council has approved an extra £2.7 million to spent on improving road, bridges and piers between 2016/17.

As part of the local authority's Capital Plan, £2.3m will be allocated for re-surfacing, surface dressing and road markings across the Highland's road network.

In addition, £400,000 will be put aside to maintain bridges in Sutherland (Kylesku) and Lochaber (A884 Achnagavin).

Committee members also approved the purchase of a 'Jetpatcher' for £150,000 following trials with neighbouring local authorities.

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The council pledged an additional £24.5m for roads, bridges and piers in December 2015.

The 10-year capital plan will fund some £900m of projects and will form the basis of a future rolling investment programme.

Councillor Audrey Sinclair said: "The additional £24.5 million allows investment in our roads, bridges and piers across the Highlands. Every pound we spend on improving our roads, bridges and buildings goes back into the Highland economy and helps to support jobs and growth."

Councillor Allan Henderson added: "We have over 7000km of non-trunk roads in the Highlands and our road infrastructure is vital to communities.

"The additional capital funding of £24.5 million is a substantial investment which will significantly help us improve our roads and bridges. This allows for an average annual spend of £2.7 million for improvements and repairs which have been prioritised accordingly."

(LM/JP)