The bridge will cross the main Inverness-Perth railway line and enable access for pedestrians, cyclists and buses to and from the east of the city, avoiding the busy Raigmore interchange.

HIE is leading the development of Inverness Campus, one of Scotland’s most innovative projects, on land it purchased ten years ago. The 215-acre site is designed to provide a range of commercial, research and academic opportunities, with an emphasis on the life science sector.

Officially opened by the deputy first minister John Swinney three years ago, Inverness Campus provides community facilities for use by the wider public. A 20mph zone prioritises cyclists and pedestrians across the site. An average of 2000 pedestrians and cyclists per week already cross the existing Drumrosach bridge linking the south end of the Campus to the retail and business park.

HIE is progressing plans to have the new bridge in place by summer 2019.

Ruaraidh MacNeil, HIE’s project director for Inverness Campus, said: “From the very start of our development of Inverness Campus we have incorporated low-carbon transport options.

“Excellent footpaths and cycleways are already in place. The new North Bridge will enhance this by adding a new public transport route into Inverness for those travelling from the east of the city.”

More information is available on the Public Contracts Scotland website.