Building work has started on 16 new homes in Inverness city centre.

The apartments are being delivered as part of the Raining's Stairs development, which will also feature a new commercial unit. Completion is scheduled for winter 2018.

The project is being delivered by the Highland Housing Alliance, a not-for-profit organisation comprising of the Highland Council, Ark Estates and William Gray Construction.

Building in three staged sections, the homes will also feature a residents' walkway with landscaping and planting, including a natural stone wall and vertical timber cladding around the buildings. Secure cycle storage features will be installed for each building.

The development forms part of the Inverness and Highland City-Region deal, a joint initiative supported by up to £315 million of investment from the UK and Scottish governments, The Highland Council, HIE and University of the Highland and Islands, aimed at stimulating sustainable regional economic growth.

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Highland Housing Alliance Chief Executive, Gail Matheson, said: "With the steel work now onsite, it's great to see that Raining's Stairs is taking shape. With our partners, The Highland Council, the Scottish Government and Wm Gray Construction the development we will see 16 homes being delivered for both HHA and The Highland Council.

"The Raining's Stairs development will regenerate the area, building 16 new flats for rent to local people and families whilst a ground floor commercial unit will offer a local business opportunity."

Housing Minister, Kevin Stewart said: "I am delighted to see work get underway at Raining's Stairs. It promises to provide modern, high quality and affordable accommodation, while also regenerating this City Centre location."

William Gray, Managing Director of William Gray Construction and Ark Estates, said: "We're very pleased that this project is progressing so well, continuing our successful relationship with the Highland Housing Alliance. This area of Inverness city centre has been crying out for regeneration and more housing for many years and we are delighted to be involved."

(LM/MH)