Initial site investigation works have just been completed for Glascairn Meadows, a mix of 20 two and three-bedroom bungalows on land adjacent to the village shop.

Billy McKay, construction director of Tulloch Homes, said: “We’re delighted to press the button on our first all-bungalows development in some years. With fantastic views across the Firth to Ben Wyvis and beyond, it’s an ideal location. Construction work on the homes will begin in the Spring and we’ll be widening Glascairn Road as part of the project.

“Getting started at Culbokie is well-timed as our existing Easter Ross developments at Broomhill in Muir of Ord, and Braes of Conon are now fully built and close to a complete sellout. Thus we’ll be able to maintain employment by switching jobs to Glascairn Meadows.

“The Black Isle has been a success story for us over the past decade, including two fine developments at Fortrose, and we are now actively looking for one or more suitable sites in that area for future projects.”

Maria Wilson, Tulloch Homes sales consultant for Glascairn Meadows, added: ”Recent research has shown that since the pandemic, more people are looking for a rural environment and more space. This includes being able to work from home with easy access to the countryside.

“Glascairn Meadows ticks all these boxes and, with site works starting, we are now accepting notes of interest from prospective buyers so we can keep them advised.

“We have had lots of serious interest even at this early stage of the development, which suggests that Culbokie has the potential to be a real winner. It’s somewhere people want to live and the fact that all the homes are bungalows is clearly appealing, as they have always been extremely sought after.

“Add Tulloch Homes’ award-winning designs and craftsmanship, excellent transport links to Inverness or further north, and the community spirit and positive vibes about the village, and it adds up to a highly attractive development.”

The first homes will be available for occupation next summer.

Tulloch will also be creating a ‘village green’ effect at Glascairn Meadows as part of their infrastructure strategy. The firm will also be building 14 affordable homes for Cairn Housing Association.

The access route created by Tulloch will enable the Culbokie Community Trust, which acquired adjoining land in 2015, to maximise its potential for community-related activities. Tulloch and the Trust liaised closely to secure planning consent.

Mr McKay said: ”We’re pleased to be able to unlock the initiative led by local people who have innovative plans for their land.”