Property developer Springfield Properties has submitted plans for two new developments in the Ardersier area, which could see a staggering 133 new homes brought to the coastal village.
The first application will see a total of 117 homes constructed on land covering six hectares near to Nairn Road. A mixture of private and affordable residential properties will be constructed, with the 87 private homes consisting of a mixture of flats, terraced and semi-detached properties. Thirty homes on the site have been earmarked for affordable housing.
Springfield’s Group Partnership managing director, Tom Leggeat, has said: “Ardersier is a great place – it’s a short drive from the hustle and bustle of Inverness, with scenic views of the coast in a quiet sea-side town. Our plans will feed into that.
“The development will bring jobs and development opportunities for youngsters, support shops and businesses and offer a mix of new private and affordable homes in the area.
“We had great attendance and feedback from locals when we unveiled our plans at the community consultation recently. The larger development is a natural expansion of the existing village and has been designed with this in mind.”
A second, smaller application has been lodged by the property developer consisting of 16 affordable homes just off Station Road. A former railway station will be transformed into bungalows under the plans, working in partnership with a local housing association.
Mr Leggeat added: “The plans for 16 new bungalows in the centre of the village will inject life into an unsightly section of land.
“We expect to hear the views from Council members in the coming months.”
Councillor Roddy Balfour said: “Any housing development is to be welcomed. However; I am aware the distribution of houses is causing concern to local residents.
“Residents are concerned they are being compressed by two story houses being built virtually on their back fences.
“The ambition is to be commended. There is a demand for houses in Ardersier. It is a seaside town and a very attractive place.
“There is room for expansion and I am particularly pleased to see houses and flats on the main street. If the distribution of houses can be altered to take in the concerns of nearby residents into consideration, then all the better.”