A planning application is being brought forward by Hazledene Ltd, Park Lane and Highland Housing Alliance to develop the currently vacant 25.2-acre site.

Bounded to the east by the A9, the proposed development would provide approximately 400 much-needed social, affordable and private-for-sale homes in South Inverness as well as commercial uses. The new homes will be attractive for a wide range of people, both locals and people new to the area. It will offer walking trails connecting to nearby homes and amenities, as well as space for local businesses. It also benefits from a nearby school and nursery, as well as good transport links both to Inverness and further afield.

Ahead of the online consultation, Brian Clarke, joint managing director at Park Lane, said: “Building on the success and popularity of new housing developments in Milton of Leys over the last five years our masterplan has been shaped to complement this and designed as an extension of the community.

“Now that the PAN has been submitted, we look forward to engaging with the local community to seek their thoughts and consider these as we shape the final design, should it get the go-ahead from Highland Council.”

Gail Matheson, chief executive at HHA, said: “The Highland-wide Local Development Plan identifies that there is an acute need for more affordable housing options. Our vision will help to address this, alongside provide private, mid-market and low-cost home tenure and ownership options.

“We are hopeful that the Highland Council and local residents alike can see the wealth of economic and community benefits an additional 400 homes will bring to the area as we collectively look to future-proof the Highland’s economy and housing supply.”

The design team includes ThreeSixty Architecture and Turley.

A planning application is expected to be submitted later in 2022.