Plans have been unveiled for a new £1.5million retail centre at Conon Bridge – paving the way for the creation of more than 50 new jobs.
Co-op Food has been confirmed as the first tenant of the development, with a further two units available to let.
The site sits adjacent to the 250-home Braes of Conon residential development and Ben Wyvis Primary School, and is being developed by West Coast Estates.
The firm said that the scheme was poised to create up to 40 retail jobs and 12 construction posts.
Company director Iftikar Mian said the site was “ideally positioned” for the retail centre.
“One of our objectives as a company is to invest in neighbourhoods, helping businesses to set up and serve local communities,” he said.
“This development will be an attractive addition to the area and we expect there to be a lot of interest in the available retail units.
“There has recently been a resurgence in localised retailing and going forward we are looking to maximise the potential of neighbourhood sites across Scotland, which can add a tremendous amount of value to the communities they serve, enhancing amenities within the local areas.
“Braes of Conon Shopping at Conon Bridge is a fantastic example and with this in mind we are constantly looking for other sites that may be ideally positioned to this type of retail units.”
The available units each occupy 1015sq ft, and the development will have 38 dedicated parking spaces.
Alan Johnston, regional manager for the Co-op, said: “We look forward to establishing a new food store in Conon Bridge as well as creating a significant number of jobs for local people.
“The Co-op is a community retailer and we’re committed to playing an active role in local life.”
West Coast Estates is a private, family-owned property investment and development company based in Aberdeen, and was founded by Iftikar Mian and his brother Sarfraz Ali in 1991
Earlier this month, Tulloch Homes lodged plans to build 29 new homes as part of the Braes of Conon development.
An amenity area, including a children’s play park and a football pitch, were also included in the proposal.