Highland Council has ditched plans to build 35 homes near a nature reserve after a community outcry.
The local authority had proposed a plan for affordable homes in the recreational field behind the Merkinch Nature Reserve and Carnarc Crescent in Inverness as part of ongoing efforts to regenerate the area.
As officials prepared to unveil the extensive plans for the first time, Caroline Snow, project manager for Merkinch Nature Reserve, said the development would have a “catastrophic” effect on them.
Plans for housing development close to Merkinch Nature Reserve criticised
A statement from the council released today said they would now not be proceeding with the development following a meeting with people from the local community.
A council spokesman said: “Prior to proceeding with any potential development the council seeks the views of the local community and having listened to the concerns of the South Kessock community we have decided not to proceed with these proposals at this time.
“The delivery of much needed affordable homes remains a priority for Highland Council and we will continue to investigate alternative proposals elsewhere in order to meet the Scottish Governments housing targets.”
