Councillors will discuss the controversial Inverness West Link road this week – following the first full report into the scheme since 2013.
They will be told that work is due to start on the multimillion-pound project by the end of this year, despite the ongoing threat of a public inquiry.
It is the first progress report on the West Link to be presented to the full Highland Council since September 5, 2013.
The authority has previously been criticised by watchdog Audit Scotland for not providing more up-to-date information on the development of the road.
Councillors will also hear that the estimated cost of the scheme has risen to £43.4million – more than £10million above previous quoted figures.
Members will also be given an update on new sports facilities associated with the project, including rugby pitches at Canal Park at an estimated cost of £3.64million and a new Torvean Golf Course at £8.2million.
That means that the total cost could reach £55million.
However, progress on the development is on hold until the outcome of a possible public inquiry is known.
A preliminary hearing was held last month and the inquiry would consider objections to compulsory purchase orders (CPOs) for plots of land needed for the road project.
The inquiry is pencilled in for May 20 but may yet not be required – if the CPO objections can be overcome.
In his report, Colin Howell, the council’s head of infrastructure, says that adverts for contractors could be placed in the first half of the this year.
Work on the road, including tree-felling and moving underground pipes could begin later in the year, while work on stage one of the project, including the bridge over the River Ness, would start in 2016.
The road is currently scheduled for completion in 2020.
Work on the enhanced sports facilities could also start in 2016.
Councillor Thomas Prag, chairman of the strategic planning committee, said: “The costs of the West Link reported are in line with figures already given to council previously.
“The project offers substantial opportunities to further enhance sports facilities and attractions for the benefit of the whole of Inverness.”