A project to redevelop Inverness' cycling infrastructure has reached the next stage of Sustrans Scotland's Community Links PLUS competition.

The 'Inverness Active Travel Network' design aims to strengthen the existing network that connects all of the city's communities with the centre. In addition, it also seeks to develop seamless and segregated cycle-friendly routes along Millburn Road, Academy Street and the Raigmore Interchange.

The Highland Council scheme has now received up to £40,000 of funding to develop the proposal, with the aim of securing multi-million pound funding to deliver the project.

If successful, plans include a major overhaul of Millburn Road with the removal of one lane of general traffic in place for a fully segregated cycle path. A westbound bus lane and footpath would also be introduced, transforming the area into a less congested and pedestrian friendly area. A signalised junction would also become a feature of Millburn Road with separate signals for pedestrians and cyclists.

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In Academy Street, a one-way cycle track will be implemented with buffer zones off the main carriageway behind the parking and loading areas. The project also plans to create a ramp from the Raigmore Interchange to the Golden Bridge that would see construction of a cycle and pedestrian friendly route to the Inverness Campus.

The proposal is competing against four other bids from Glasgow City Council, The City of Edinburgh Council and Stirling Council. Final plans will be presented to a cross sector panel, chaired by Transport Scotland chief executive Roy Brannen, before the winning project is announced in summer later this year.

Inverness Provost Cllr Helen Carmichael said: "If the Inverness Active Travel Network project is successful in getting Community Links PLUS funding we'll be able to create the infrastructure needed to continue with our plans to encourage more cyclists whilst promoting health, reducing congestion and creating better public spaces."

Transport Minister Humza Yousaf added: "I would like to congratulate the five projects that have made it through to the final round of the Community Links PLUS design competition.

"I am pleased to see that local authorities have again put forward very ambitious projects which will help to create a step change in conditions for walking, cycling and place making that communities can all benefit from. 

"These kinds of place making projects are part of our long-term vision for active travel and also our recently published Cycling Action Plan for Scotland, which reiterates our commitment to maintain current levels of funding for the remainder of this Parliament."

(LM/MH)