Plans for a series of improvements to public footpaths around Nairn are to receive a community grant of £50,000 from Inverness and Nairn Enterprise (INE).

The project, which is being instigated by The Highland Council, will focus on four stretches of paths.  Improvements to the riverside paths on the west of the river, the 'Old Cemetery' footpath, will include installation of street lighting.

Meanwhile on the east side, the path between Merryton Bridge and the pumping station, streetlights and a cycleway will be included.  Further improvements will also be carried out on the Westerlea footpath and Links footpath.

The projects are in line with the Paths Around Nairn Project, completed July 2000, which developed paths for tourism and social benefits around Nairn.  They also complement the aims of the Highlands and Islands Access Strategy, which was led by Highlands and Islands Enterprise.

Marie Mackintosh, of INE's strengthening communities team, said:  "This project will enhance the quality of the local environment and provide benefits for the local community, particularly in improving access for people with disabilities.  These paths have become a very valuable amenity for the people of Nairn and its visitors and I am delighted we are able to give the project our support."