Springfield Properties announced that the first of 47 new homes in Drumnadrochit are due to go on sale this weekend following planning approval at appeal.

Springfield said it has already delivered 35 homes – including affordable homes – just off the A82 in the highland village on the banks of Loch Ness.

The proposals for the next phases of Springfield homes, which includes 47 private and affordable homes, were refused by The Highland Council in February.

Following an appeal raised by Springfield to the Scottish Government, the decision has been overturned, enabling construction of the homes to proceed.

Springfield Managing Director (North) Dave Main said: “A lot has changed over the last few months. Scotland is in the midst of a housing crisis and with the upcoming investment from the green Freeport which is set to create more than 10,000 new jobs in the area, housing needs in the region are set to increase substantially.

“We are pleased the importance of the delivery of good quality homes across the Highlands has been recognised.

“We are looking forward to getting back on site in the coming weeks, offering continuation of work for the hardworking local trades and releasing the homes for sale to eager buyers this weekend.”

Drumnadrochit residents and first-time buyers Katie MacDiarmid and Michael Finnis are happy that Springfield has been given the green light to deliver the homes.

Katie, 27, said: “I’ve lived in Drumnadrochit my whole life and always dreamed of staying here. As a nurse at Raigmore Hospital, I love being able to come to the countryside and it’s such a beautiful place to live.

“My older brother and many of my friends have had to move away from Drumnadrochit in search of more affordable and energy efficient properties.

“We’re so pleased that there is going to be an opportunity for us to buy in Drumnadrochit.

“A new build home at a fixed price that doesn’t need any renovations works would suit us ideally and help us to take that first step on the property ladder.”