Transformation of Inverness Castle due to begin this year
Highland Council have revealed further details of the revamp
Plans to make Inverness Castle a 'must see' attraction are due to begin later this year.
Enabling works such as structural checks and asbestos surveys will go to tender in May.
Applications to change the use of the building and to put hoardings up to screen the castle will take place between March and June.
A landscape architect has also been appointed and is working on initial designs for the castle surroundings.
The castle is currently the base for city's' court service, but this will soon be relocated to a new building on Longman Road.
The project forms part of the Inverness and Highland City-Region deal with £315 million being invested into the area.
Provost Helen Carmichael outlined what the transformation will mean for the area.
She said: 'The Inverness Castle project is vital to the regeneration of our city centre and the wider tourism economy of the Highland region.
'I am pleased that we are able to share more detail on what is planned. I am especially delighted that we will be aiming to improve accessibility, both within the historic building and around the grounds which provide terrific views of the city and beyond.
'I am excited at the future prospects of Inverness Castle becoming a ‘must-see’ attraction that will draw visitors to the Highlands.'
UK minister for Scotland Douglas Ross said: 'These are exciting plans for the Highlands.
'As a major tourist attraction, with stunning views of this beautiful city, I look forward to seeing the next phase of the castle’s transformation.
'The UK Government is investing more than £1.4 billion in City Region and Growth Deals across Scotland.
'This programme is creating thousands of jobs and opportunities and we will continue to work with the Scottish Government to make sure these reach every part of Scotland.'