Ministers set to back new Asda store

SCOTTISH ministers say they are minded to approve a new Asda store for Inverness if the supermarket giant completes a scheme to ease traffic congestion.

But a formal decision will be delayed for at least three months to allow the action to be approved by roads authorities.

Asda has been trying for over a decade to break into the Highland capital. It was hoped a 27 million store approved in 2009 would open this year, creating 400 jobs.

It was held up by a legal challenge raised by Inverness Estates, which is funding another huge proposed project for the city. The consortium was unhappy that Asda was not going to pay up front for road improvements.

However the supermarket recently announced it has agreed to make a contribution of 1.5m towards improvements to the Inshes roundabout and mitigate the impacts of the development at Slackbuie on nearby roads.

Lisa Rooke, property communications manager for Asda said yesterday the latest backing from ministers is a step forward for the proposals.

She said the firm is committed to working closely with The Highland Council on the traffic plans in the hope of getting formal planning permission.

"As soon as we have the permission we will submit our detailed plans to The Highland Council for approval to pave the way for the development."