The houses have been built at the newly named Dewdale Court, formerly the derelict Victoria Garage site on Invergordon High Street. The development is a mix of wheelchair, varying needs, and general needs flats and houses built around a courtyard just off the High Street at the Seabank Junction, which was also improved as part of the housing works.

NHS Highland’s complex case planning manager, Arlene Johnstone, said: “NHS Highland have worked collaboratively with Highland Council & Birchwood Highland to ensure individuals are enabled to move from long term placements in hospital or nursing homes into high quality desirable housing accommodation with a modern support package that will allow them to receive the help they require in a way that meets their needs.

“Individuals will have choice and control over the support they receive and we are confident this will further enhance their recovery and allow them to develop active, meaningful lives in a community setting.”

Emily Stokes, chief executive of Birchwood Highland, said: “We’re delighted to have collaborated with Highland Council and NHS Highland on this project. As an organisation, Birchwood Highland is committed to investing in the Easter Ross area, and this attractive development provides a wonderful opportunity for people to regain their confidence by living independently in the community; promoting Birchwood’s own ethos of independence, inclusion and recovery.

“The transitional nature of the accommodation – ensuring a sustainable flow of occupants - will also ensure that others will benefit from this development well into the future.”

All the houses have now been rented to tenants who are either existing council tenants who are transferring to a new home or are applicants from the Highland Housing Register.

Local councillors Maxine Smith and Pauline Munro visited the development earlier this week and welcomed tenants Karen and Andrew Sutton to their new home.

Councillor Maxine Smith said: “It is always great to welcome new tenants into new council houses after so many years of being unable to build new homes. Our house build programme is now gathering pace and we can now offer some people quality, energy efficient homes. We hope Karen and Andrew and all the people moving into Dewdale Court enjoy many happy years in their new homes.”