A blueprint that will shape the future of Elgin for the next three decades has been backed by planning chiefs.
Springfield Properties’s masterplan for the south of the town includes 2,500 new homes, two primary schools and a sports centre.
The results of a three-month consultation about the massive development will be presented to Moray Council’s planning committee on Tuesday, and planning officers have recommended them for approval.
About 120 people attended a public exhibition in May, with dozens more filling out online surveys to comment on the plans.
A report produced for councillors shows a “strong demand” for the proposed sports centre as well as new bungalows.
However, concerns have been raised about traffic issues.
The blueprint has been developed alongside a new transport strategy for Elgin.
Elgin City South councillor John Divers is eager to ensure there are enough access roads to the new development to ease congestion.
He said: “It’s going to be a huge development. With the other houses to the north of Elgin then it could be about 4,000 new homes in total over the next 10 or 20 years.
“One of the issues I’ve repeatedly raised is traffic. It’s already really bad at the bridge and main street in New Elgin.
“We need to ensure there are enough roads, not just from the A96, to spread the traffic out, particularly from the A941 towards Rothes.”
At Tuesday’s meeting committee members will be asked to approve the plans and delegate authority to council officials.
A planning application has already been submitted for the first phase of the masterplan, including 870 homes, the sports centre and sites for two new schools. Construction is expected to begin early next year.
Another two phases of development are expected to be submitted over the next 20 years to complete the development.
Springfield Properties’s managing director Innes Smith said: “Elgin South will be like a new village. Our goal is to create a place, with a vibrant community, that people are proud to call home.
“The initial plans were discussed earlier in the year and the feedback received was positive and enthusiastic. We’ve taken on board any points raised and we’re optimistic about the decision of the final plans this coming weekend.”
