Moray Council unanimously approved the detailed proposals for 186 new high-quality homes – including 47 much needed affordable homes – at committee on Tuesday.

Elgin South Village has been designed to embrace the 20-minute neighbourhood model which promotes local living and ensures local people can access services and amenities, such as shops and play parks, easily.

The village is already home to over 400 people, the state-of-the-art Moray Sports Centre, a number of play parks, open green space and Linkwood Primary School. The latest phase, just off Birnie Road, includes 2, 3 and 4 bedroom homes, walking, cycle and road links to the wider area, a village square, retail opportunities and extensive planting throughout.

Dave Main, Springfield managing director (North), said: “We’re really pleased the next stage of Elgin South has been supported by Moray Council. This planning consent is a milestone for the next chapter of the village and allows the continued delivery of excellent quality, energy efficient homes for people in Elgin.

“Elgin South has been a popular choice for home buyers in the area and we’re looking forward to the delivery of this phase of the village that will continue to support and sustain the needs of an already thriving community.

“We have worked closely with Moray Council and other stakeholders while developing our plans and their feedback has been invaluable so far. We are keen to build on these relationships as we deliver our proposals and begin selling these homes in the coming months.”

The homes already built at Elgin South Village, and those now approved, are designed with innovative heating systems and high levels of quality insulation to maximise the efficiency of the home.