Network Rail has welcomed the progress in the construction of the new Inverness Airport station.

Work got underway on the new £14m station in October and early activity has seen the site set up, groundworks and the creation of embankments at the location adjacent to the airport.

The project will deliver a two-platform station on the Aberdeen-Inverness line with step-free access, via a footbridge with lifts. Work also includes the creation of a passing-loop (a second line of track through the station) and the closure of Petty Level crossing.

The station will have 64 car parking spaces with 10 electric charging facilities, four disabled spaces and cycle parking. There will be a new access road to the station for motorists and access to both platforms for pedestrians and cyclists.

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Main construction work on the new platforms, including the concrete lift shafts and footbridge foundations will begin in the new year. It will also include the creation of access roads and carpark.

The new station will deliver improved travel links to the growing Inverness Airport Business Park and the new town of Tornagrain.

The development also comes with the advantage of closing the level crossing at Petty which will improve the safety of the line and the operation of the new station, which is due for completion in December 2022.

David Millar, Project Manager for Network Rail, said: "(This) year promises to be an exciting and busy one for this project. On completion the new station will enhance the local area and improve connectivity for nearby residents and the wider Inverness area by providing a new sustainable transport interchange.

"Getting on-site to start the build is a significant milestone in the project and we have made good early progress.

"We will continue to work with our partners to deliver this new station as quickly as possible for our customers and the wider community."