Work has started on the latest phase of a scheme to try and reduce flooding on a network of Inverness burns.
Contractors began work on Monday on “phase 3B” of flood alleviation measures in Smithton and Culloden on the outskirts of the city.
The latest phase of the plan involves a number of measures to reduce the impact of erosion on the Smithton Burn.
Contractors Pat Munro (Alness) Ltd will install debris screens on the water system in a bid to prevent blockages of downstream culverts.
The flood scheme plans were drawn up after a series of flash floods on the river system.
Murray Terrace resident Bill Hamilton, 68, drowned in 2011 while apparently trying to clear a choked culvert on the Smithton Burn near his home.
A course debris screen will be installed in the Woodlands Park area to prevent woody debris and large stones washing into culverts.
A second screen will also be installed at Murray Park to reduce the likelihood of debris becoming trapped in a culvert below Smithton Park.
Previous phases of the flood alleviation scheme involved the creation of a series of stepped pools at Smithon.
Chairman of Highland Council’s planning, development and infrastructure committee, Councillor Thomas Prag said: “The council gave a commitment to do all we could to reduce flood risk in the area and the current site works are key to making the community that bit safer from potential flooding.”
Detailed design of the fourth phase of the scheme is ongoing and a public exhibition of the plans will be held at Smithton Free Church on Murray Road on Tuesday, March 10.