SUSTRANS said it would be "delighted" if Highland Council applied for funding to support a feasibility study for a low level path near to Loch Ness
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The walking and cycling charity, said it had already met with council representatives.
The plan, being promoted by Councillor David Fraser, and supported by the Highland Cycle Campaign, would see a path run the full length of Loch Ness to the north.
A spokesman for Sustrans said: "We would be delighted to receive an application from The Highland Council for funding to support a feasibility study here when our Places for Everyone programme reopens. This is a competitive fund, and all applications are reviewed and scored against assessment criteria before any funding awards are offered.
“Alongside our Places for Everyone programme, we are developing a long-term, collaborative plan for improving and growing the National Cycle Network across Scotland.
“To help shape this long-term plan, our team have already met with key stakeholders, including representatives from The Highland Council, to discuss active travel aspirations in the Highland area."
He added: "We have also met with elected representatives to discuss our long-term proposals, and we look forward to continuing this collaborative approach to helping more people to walk, wheel and cycle over the short, medium and long term.”
John Davidson, convener of Highland Cycle Campaign, said: "It's high-time a cycle route from Inverness to Fort Augustus on the north side of the loch was back on the agenda.
"Not only would this open up much-needed safe links between communities alongside Loch Ness, but it could - if done properly - also provide a world-class cycle tourism destination with connections to quieter roads on the south side of the loch.
"The Etape Loch Ness cycle sportive, which operates on a closed A82, has shown the appetite for safer cycling in this location. However, it's not only sporty cyclists that would make use of a high-quality cycle path here.
"It would encourage families and less confident riders, as well as opening up unforgettable views over Loch Ness from along its length."
Councillor Fraser said he was continuing to work with Councillor Margaret Davidson and council officers to promote the plan.
READ MORE: Councillor seeks low level path for walkers
