Inverness residents say hands off our nature reserve!

WORRIED families fear 30 years of work at a city nature reserve is set to be “trashed” by a proposed new housing development.

Plans for homes on land next to the Merkinch Local Nature Reserve will go on show at a public meeting on Monday evening.

It is understood 35 homes, comprising a mix of bungalows, flats and houses, are being proposed for the site owned by Highland Council and situated behind Carnarc Crescent.

But the project has run into opposition from residents and community representatives who fear it will impact on the adjoining nature reserve – often described as a hidden gem – which is home to a wide range of wildlife including roe deer and otters as well as more than 80 species of birds. It is also a popular outdoor space for people of all ages and locals argue it is one of the last few green spaces in the neighbourhood, which is why it should remain undeveloped.

Full story in today's Highland News.

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