'Strong support' for revamp of Inverness Station Quarter

Highland Council says there is "very strong support" from the public for its plans to make major changes to the area around Inverness bus station.

The plans involve creating a traffic-free civic square at Farraline Park next to city's A-listed library building.

Moving the bus station closer to the railway station to create an integrated transport hub has also been proposed.

In a new report, council officials said it could be a catalyst for wider regeneration of the area known as the Station Quarter.

Between 75 and 90% of people who took part in a public consultation supported the plans for sweeping changes, according to the report.

It concluded that there was "widespread dissatisfaction" with the current state of the area around Farraline Park.

People highlighted its unattractive appearance describing it as an "embarrassing" and "unwelcoming gateway" to Inverness for residents and visitors.

People also complained about poor connections between the bus and railway stations.

The report will be discussed at a meeting of Highland Council's City of Inverness area committee next week.

Councillors have been asked to agree to the appointment of a design team which would carry out more detailed work on plans for a new bus station, civic square and demolition of Rose Street multi-storey car park.