Plans for 325 much-needed homes in Fort William have been lodged by a leading social housing developer.
Plans have been lodged by the Link Group with Highland Council for a combination of one, two, three and four-bed houses.
One and two-bed cottages are also planned for the Upper Achintore area to the south of the town.
If approved it is hoped they will be completed by March 2021.
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A total of 90% of the housing provision is earmarked for social housing, with the remaining 10% being developed for private sale.
Phase one of the residential estate would include the formation of the road structure, main access and ground works for the first 176 properties.
The news has been welcomed by residents who have been waiting for suitable social housing to meet their needs.
In February, the P&J reported a severe housing shortage in the west coast town where more than 200 people were applying for some privately rented homes.
Ilona MacBrayne, 23, who with her partner is on a waiting list for a social housing property, said: “At long last we can see the light at the end of the tunnel. No one will be more delighted that my mum and dad who will finally get their house back.”
Lochaber single parent Sally McLeod, 42, said: “I am in a two-bed flat with three kids and we desperately need to have a garden to get out to play in.
“I am really hoping that we will be considered for one of the new houses.”
Colin Culross, director of development for Link Group said: “The provision of affordable housing on this scale will deliver new housing opportunities for the people of Fort William and assist Highland Council achieve its priorities set out in its Local Housing Strategy.
“The development will also contribute to the Scottish Government’s ‘More Homes’ targets and strategy for Inclusive Growth by delivering significant economic benefits derived from a range of community benefits including employment and training.
“The development proposals have benefited from a programme of community engagement events and the support of the local housing provider, Lochaber Housing Association, who will manage the new homes on completion.”
