A new social housing development has been welcomed by the leader of Moray Council more than a year after it was rejected by the local authority on environmental grounds.
The 16 home site at Stonecross Hill in Elgin was only revived after the Scottish Government stepped in and overturned the council’s decision.
It was originally rejected after impassioned pleas from local residents who argued that it would destroy their neighbourhood with concerns about a lack of parking spaces.
Planning officers recommended the proposal for approval but concerns were raised that it would involve cutting down mature pine trees.
Elgin City North councillor Patsy Gowans was concerned that allowing the trees to be cleared for homes could have set a dangerous precedent. The Springfield Properties development was eventually rejected on the grounds it breached council policy.
However, the development, part-funded by the Scottish Government, is currently being built and will be run by Hanover Scotland Housing Association.
It is expected to open in March 2019 and will consist of 16 general needs homes, ranging from one-bedroom cottage style flats to three and four-bedroom semi-detached houses.
Council leader Graham Leadbitter paid a visit to the site and highlighted the need for more social housing in the region.
He said: “When the housing application was originally approved for this area there were concerns in the local community, however regardless of the issues about the location I believe people understand the need for supported housing like this. With an ageing population having a broad range of housing options available is absolutely vital.
“Hanover Scotland has a reputation for high quality supported accommodation and I was pleased to meet with them and be shown around the development. It is clearly being built to a high standard and Hanover Scotland is clearly committed to seeing the development integrate well with the surrounding area and to build strong neighbourhood relationships.”