Revamp of community woodland's paths approved
BBCCouncillors have approved planned improvements to a historic wood in Inverness.
Culduthel Community Woods are on about two acres (6ha) of land once associated with a former stately home that dated back to the 1780s.
The woods were brought into community ownership in 2022 and are now the focus of projects to improve its paths, tackle invasive plants and encourage growth of native species.
Highland Council officials had recommended that planned work to the wood's entrance, paths and a pond be granted permission.
The application for the improvements received 17 objections during the planning process.
They raised several concerns for local residents, including the impact of increased numbers of people passing through the woods.
Councillors visited the woodland on Wednesday and heard from both supporters and objectors, before making a decision on the application.
Culduthel Woods Group chairman Murray Ferguson told councillors of how well used the area was by school groups and dog walkers.
The woods provide habitat to red squirrels and birds.
Tiny burrows in an area of earth bank have also been found to be home to bees.
Future proposals include improving an adjoining area of grassland for the benefit of plants and insects, and potentially putting up bat boxes.