Plans for a jetty to replace an existing pontoon used by Jacobite Cruises on Loch Ness are on course to win the local authority’s backing.
Councillors will meet on Tuesday to consider the scheme and officials have recommended they approve it.
The proposals will be debated by Highland Council’s south planning committee because 11 objections from the public have been received.
There are fears over its proximity to Dochgarroch Lock and the potential impact on the tranquillity of the spot, as well as worries over the risk of erosion of the Caledonian Canal bank because of the size of vessels which could use the facility.
Scottish Canals has told the council that a jetty would bring the boats closer to the edge of the canal and improving access for other waterway users.
A report prepared for councillors suggests the proposal would “increase the potential for visitor stays and spend and promote a wider spread of visitors”.
It also says the project would safeguard and promote responsible access to heritage features.
Dochgarroch has become increasingly popular for berthing and tourism.
While some objections have focussed on the jetty design, the report concludes that the best approach would be to ensure it “looks of its time rather than trying to mimic the past”.
It would be built from steel and finished with hardwood timber boards.
The existing pontoon would be repositioned further west – at Dochgarroch – and be available for transit berths.
Scottish Canals has said it “does not anticipate any damage to the pitching or embankment opposite the new wharf as result of Jacobite’s operations”, but inspectors will monitor it on a monthly basis.