PICTURES: Take a look at first images of plans for new housing in Nethy Bridge
Plans have been lodged for 35 new homes in Nethy Bridge which could also lead to a boost for additional affordable housing in the village.
The residential development which also includes formation of access road and SUDS is proposed for agricultural land 160 metres south of Lynstock Park.
The developer and applicant is AW Laing, a well-known joinery and building contractor company established in 1921 in Grantown.
A 43-page design and access report details more on the proposals and includes images of how the housing development could look.
AW Laing is currently developing another site in Nethy Bridge - Station Yard - that recently received full consent for 21 properties.
Company bosses have been in discussion with Highland Council’s housing development team and Albyn Housing Society with a view to the full affordable provision for both Lettoch Road and Station Yard being delivered at the latter site.
The developers believe it is more suitable affordable housing site for several reasons including closer proximity to the village centre, transport links and the primary school.
A supporting statement with the planning application has said if approved then Nethy Bridge would benefit from more than the 14 affordable homes currently required to be delivered by the two developments.
The affordable housing statement explained: “The developer is currently in talks with the housing provider to agree that the entire Station Yard site can be delivered as affordable housing.
“This would give an uplift to the overall affordable provision of seven units to give a total of 21 affordable units, giving an overall percentage provision of 37.5 per cent.
“The developer has indicated that they would be willing to sign a legal agreement to ratify this agreement.
“Development of this site, and particularly the over-provision of affordable housing, will support Highland Council’s strategic objective to address the region’s housing challenge by building 24,000 new houses.
“This will boost the construction industry, reverse depopulation of communities and offer wider benefits including reduced homelessness, increased employment and improved health benefits.
The Nethy River borders the south of the proposed site and includes a wide meander.
Nearby there are wetland areas and ancient woodlands with ‘significant ecological and bio-diverse value’.
These could be home to rare and protected species including crested tit, Scottish crossbill, capercaillie and Scottish wildcat.
