Inverness planning officials had recommended approving the development, led by Tulloch Homes, which is located between the residential areas of Inshes to the north east and Milton of Leys to the south east, with Fairways Golf Course being further to the west.

However, at a meeting of the south planning committee this week, some councillors, led by Andrew Jarvie and Carolyn Caddick, highlighted concerns about the impact of the new homes on watercourses through the area, and potential flooding. There is also a fear about the impact it will have on school rolls in the area and the lack of safe routes to school, The Press and Journal reports. 

It is intended that the development will be constructed in four phases over five years, with houses varying from one-bedroom to five-bedroom properties.

However, the south planning committee voted 7-5 in favour of a motion by Councillor Caddick for the application to be deferred for more information relating to flooding.

Inverness South Councillor Ken Gowans said: “This level of development is premature given the well documented existing roll pressures in our school. I feel it is irresponsible to allow the build more houses before we have increased school capacities and sports facilities first.

“A deferral is the right decision to provide further clarity before a well-informed determination can be made.”