A brand new development of affordable homes in Balloch is ready to welcome its first residents, bringing a wave of energy and optimism to one of Inverness’s most sought-after communities.
Just four miles east of the city centre, the development is the result of a partnership between Highland Housing Alliance and The Highland Council, with support from local contractor IBI Joiners Ltd.
The first phase is now complete, offering a mix of homes designed to meet the varied needs of families, individuals and older residents.
In total, 49 properties have been built so far, including homes for mid-market rent, council rent and low-cost home ownership.
Twelve of the homes are two- and three-bedroom semi-detached houses offered by Highland Housing Alliance for mid-market rent aimed at those who may not qualify for social housing but are priced out of the private rental sector.
The Highland Council has taken ownership of 33 properties for council rent, including four wheelchair-accessible bungalows, 13 family homes of different sizes, and 16 cottage flats.
Eight of the flats on the ground floor have also been built with full wheelchair access in mind.
A further four family homes are available for low-cost home ownership through the Scottish Government’s LIFT scheme, with Highland Residential managing applications.
The development has been carefully designed to feel like part of the existing Balloch community, which already benefits from schools, shops, public transport and a local leisure centre.
Every home has its own garden, modern fixtures and fittings, and external power points in case residents wish to install electric vehicle chargers.
Landscaping work has also improved access into the nearby community woodland, encouraging walking and connection with nature.
The development was made possible through over £7.3 million in grant funding from the Scottish Government, with additional contributions from The Highland Council, the Inverness and Highland City Region Deal, and Highland Housing Alliance.
Gail Matheson, Chief Executive at HHA, said she was proud to see the homes completed.
“These properties offer real quality and choice, and they reflect our shared commitment to making sure everyone in the Highlands can find a home that suits their needs.”
Councillor Glynis Campbell Sinclair, Chair of The Highland Council’s Housing and Property Committee, added:
“The variety of homes here, including accessible bungalows and family properties, means this development can support people at every stage of life.”
She said it was another important step in tackling the Highland housing challenge and called it a “sustainable and energy-efficient” addition to the city’s housing stock.
Scotland’s Housing Secretary, Màiri McAllan, said the government was proud to support the project.
“Homes like these help people stay close to family and work, and give communities the strength to grow,” she said.
The first residents began moving in on 26 June, stepping into not just a new house, but a whole new beginning.
