Compass Construction has started work on the first phase of a new affordable housing development at Drumnadrochit in the Highlands.

A total of five new homes are being built as part of the Benleva development, which includes 23 homes for social rent and four for low-cost home ownership.

Forming part of the Inverness and Highland City-Region deal, which is a joint initiative supported by up to £315 million investment from the UK and Scottish governments, the project has been assisted through loan funding made available to the developer utilising the Infrastructure Loan Fund set up with funding provided by the Scottish Government and the Highland Council.

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To mark the start of construction last week, a turf-cutting ceremony was held with Council Leader Margaret Davidson joining project partners from the Scottish Government, Highland Housing Alliance and Albyn Housing Association.

Councillor Davidson said: "Today marks an exciting future for some extremely lucky local young people who could be allocated a fantastic new home in their own community.

"As part of the City-Region Deal, the Council has agreed with Scottish Government to offer young people attractive, affordable housing in their community. This will enable them to stay in the region, retaining a young, vibrant workforce for the Highlands. The houses are initially for rent at affordable levels but with an opportunity to purchase."

Compass Construction Director, Thom Macleod, said: "We are pleased to be involved with the provision of the new infrastructure works and construction of the much needed affordable housing portion of the Benleva development.

"This appointment strengthens our excellent working relationship with Albyn housing Society, The Highland Housing Alliance and indeed The Highland Council further enhancing our record of affordable housing delivery throughout the Highlands."

It is expected the homes will be complete by November 2018.

(LM/JP)