History-making plans for the expansion of Moray’s capital town have been approved by the local authority.
A development of 1,500 homes to the north of Elgin was backed by the council’s planning committee and will now go out to public consultation.
The 276-acre site at Findrassie is expected to take more than 20 years to build, and will stretch from Duffus Road in the west to Lossiemouth Road in the east.
Landowner Pitgaveny Estate undertook the development in conjunction with chartered surveyors Savills-Smiths Gore.
The surveying firm’s planning advisor, Donald Lunan, presented the masterplan to councillors.
Yesterday he said: “The members were pleased at the joint working that had gone into the plan.
“Generally speaking, we didn’t receive a great many questions – mainly just recognition of what an important development this was.”
Chris Tuke, chairman of the council’s planning committee, added: “The plan was well received because it’s been well thought-out.
“The landowners engaged with the local authority and the local populace throughout and suggestions were taken on board.”
The blueprint for the site features an open park with an amphitheatre, sports pitches and allotments.
The plot will comprise a range of housing types, suitable for young families and for retirees.
There is also room for a school with community facilities and outdoor learning space attached.
The masterplan will go out to public consultation from Monday, and will be open for comments until October 9.
The scheme will be on view and comment on at Elgin Library, in the town’s council headquarters and online at www.moray.gov.uk/Findrassie