Calls for secure truck stop facilities in Inverness have been answered as developers are given the green light for Inverness Caledonian Thistle stadium site.

Highland Fuels unveiled plans in August to turn the north car park at the Inverness-based stadium into a camera-controlled secure truck parking stop.

The proposals are aimed at filling a visible gap in the market for designated facilities in the area.

It comes after the Road Haulage Association (RHA) appealed for new secure parking sites near Inverness and Aberdeen.

Their prayers have now been answered as Highland Council planners back Highland Fuels vision.

A statement contained within the planning documents outlines their intention to generate income and ‘secure the future’ of the Inverness football club.

They wrote: “The refuelling facility, once installed, is proposed to be operational at all times providing a much-needed service for commercial vehicles, the demand for which is only going to increase in the short-term due to anticipated Green Port and other investment in the region.

“The facility is intended to bring non-match-day revenue into the football club to assist in securing its future long-term financial viability.”

The truck stop will provide secure parking for up to 40 lorries, catering to 22 fixed bed haulers and 18 articulated vehicles.

Parking will be controlled by an automated number plate recognition system, enabling spaces to be prebooked online or via an app.

The developer has promised match-day parking will be unaffected by the truck stop with all bookings set to be blocked to prioritise spaces for supports.

The 24/7 truck stop will also feature a designated refuelling area and restroom facilities.

A total of five shower cubicles will be available for users, with one catering to accessible needs.

Meanwhile, the newly refurbished café in the ‘Supporter’s Bar’ area at the south end of the main stand, will be open to truck-stop users, offering hot and cold drinks, breakfast and evening meals.

This month, lorry drivers highlighted the ‘dangers’ they face due to a lack of facilities on the A9.

Haulers and couriers have come to rely on the existing roadside stop above North Kessock, on the Black Isle, as well as Tore and Skiach.

However, suitable truck stops appear to be in short supply the further north you travel.

The Road Haulage Association (RHA) has been approached for comment.

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