A developer is bidding to transform a landmark former hotel on the Black Isle into luxury apartments.
Marine House in Rosemarkie has been sold to Inverness-based William Gray Construction, through its sister company Ark Estates.
The developer has now applied for planning permission to bring the building, which was most recently used as a care home, back into use.
The plans would involve 11 two and three bedroom apartments/
And work could start as soon as this autumn depending on if planning permission is granted.
The developer is aiming the apartments ready for sale by next summer.
Managing director Willie Gray said: “We are delighted to have acquired Marine House, and we are looking forward to breathing new life into this former Victorian hotel and care home, so that it can continue to be enjoyed and admired for generations to come.
“As local people will know, the building has lain empty for some time.
“Our regeneration of the property into luxury apartments will enhance the beachfront at Rosemarkie, and will provide a suite of very desirable homes which we are confident will be very well received on the Black Isle and beyond.
“We are looking forward to working alongside our neighbours during the construction period, and are proud that we will be able to make a contribution to the local community with this important restoration.
Marine House closed as a care home in May last year after its operators were served with an improvement notice by the Care Inspectorate in 2014.
The notice was lifted by February 2015 but the building’s previous owners confirmed their plans to close down just weeks later.
It was sold to Ark Estates in June through estate agents Strutt and Parker.
Kevin Maley, partner in the company’s Inverness office, said: “Following the recent sale of Marine House, we have taken several inquiries about plans for the building and there is much excitement about its future.
“Having seen the initial proposals and plans for the building, this is very much a landmark development for the Highlands with 11 two and three-bedroom apartments finished to an impressive specification with secure entry, private parking, stylish interior design and all just a stone’s throw from one of the finest beaches on the Moray Firth.
“We have already had a number of inquiries and we are very much looking forward to working with Ark Estates on such a prestigious development.”