The decision will see an additional £40m capital investment in roads and transport infrastructure. This, on top of the previous three years of increased levels of funding, will bring the total capital investment in Highland roads over the next three years to £65m.

Leader of the council, Raymond Bremner, said: “Roads are a clear priority for the communities across the Highlands and this has been a theme in feedback from public engagement. With a local road network, many of these lifeline routes, stretching some 6600km, it is essential that continued funding at previous levels is maintained.

He went on to say: “In addition to the need for significant investment in our roads and infrastructure, we need a major solution for our ageing school estate. With this in mind, we will be bringing a ground-breaking investment plan to the May council, which will lay the foundation for the biggest improvements communities will have ever seen.”

Convener Bill Lobban said: “The capital investment in roads will further enhance the significant level of investment over the past three years, which is in addition to the roads revenue budget of £35m per year which includes allocations for winter maintenance, roads repairs and engineering services.

“There are a significant number of schemes across the Highlands that can be brought forward into an agreed programme for roads investment, which will be informed by the allocation formulas being considered through the council’s redesign board.

“Supporting sustainable and resilient communities is at the heart of our council programme and our investment plans reflect this commitment.”