Planning officers had recommended granting permission for the housing development to the east of Barhill Road, subject to conditions.

Springfield Properties put forward the application for the development, which it said contains a mixture of 29 different designs, ranging from three-storey blocks of flats to four-bedroom detached houses.

Of the 174 homes, 44 will be affordable housing. There will also be a retail unit, a playpark and a public art installation.

Springfield managing director (north) Dave Main said: “We’re pleased that our proposals for a range of energy efficient homes in Buckie have been approved by Moray Council. The development will include 174 homes across tenures, creating high quality housing options for people to move from those seeking affordable homes, first time buyers looking to get on the property ladder, families aspiring for more space and those looking to downsize.

“We are excited to once again be building in Buckie – an area that we have been delivering in for a number of years. Our new housing development will create local jobs and apprenticeship opportunities, stimulate the nearby supply chain and contribute well to the area’s economy.”