In total there are 14 new homes, replacing 12 houses that originally stood on the site, they comprise of eight 2 bed/4 person flats and six 2 bed/4 person houses. All properties have private garden space and off-street parking. Allocation for all properties has been committed and it is hoped (weather permitting) that tenants will move in ahead of Christmas.

The project was part funded by a £1.35 million grant from Scottish Government’s More Homes Fund.

Housing and Property Committee chair, Councillor Glynis Sinclair, said: “Today marks a momentous milestone for the Council and for the new residents at Meiklefield Road, Dingwall. This pilot project is a new approach to enable outworn Council housing stock to be repurposed by demolishing and building new homes using the footprint of the former site. This will help ensure longevity of affordable, modern rental property for the future.

“It was wonderful to hear about one local resident, who has been a tenant at Meiklefield Road since 1977, and has been patiently waiting in temporary accommodation throughout the new build. She, along with the other residents will be delighted to be moving into her new home which is almost on the identical footprint of her former home.”

Cllr Sinclair added: “The Highland Council’s housing priority is to offer affordable, sustainable and energy efficient housing that enables people to stay within rural communities, allowing them to prosper and grow and in turn support wider economic growth. These new homes are welcomed, and I wish the tenants every happiness in their new homes.”

Dingwall and Seaforth Area Committee chair, Cllr Graham MacKenzie, added: “I’m delighted to see Meiklefield Road, restored to its former glory. On behalf of the Dingwall and Seaforth Area Committee, I’d like to thank all those involved in making our aspirations to improve Council housing stock in Dingwall a reality.

“We extend our best wishes to both new and former residents that will shortly be moving into their new homes.”

Architectural services were provided by HRI Munro, with Capstone Construction undertaking the build.

The success of the pilot project paves the way for The Highland Council to consider further phases in the area and Officers are hopeful that they will be able to present a phase 2 proposal for consultation in the New Year.

Due to adverse weather, the show round with local Members and MSP Kate Forbes was postponed until January 2023.