Masterplan Consent Areas
Masterplan Consent Areas
We are considering the use of Masterplan Consent Areas (MCAs) within Highland. The Masterplan Consent Areas Statement explains that consideration.
An MCA is a way to accelerate the delivery of a development site. We feel this is needed better and more quickly to meet the current high demand for new homes in Highland, which is expected to continue as more jobs are created in the area.
We have made a decision to progress 3 possible proposals for MCAs at Essich Road (Inverness), Ardersier and Embo (Sutherland).
Each MCA has formal Public Notices and maps that explain more.
Public engagement events
Initial public engagement on the 3 areas started in January 2026.
We have hosted two public events for each site, where staff from our team and the potential development partner were available to present information and answer questions.
To view supporting files and submit comments online, visit the Highland Council Consultation portal. The deadline for comments in this stage of the MCA process (stage 2) is 31 March 2026.
Ardersier
- View the public notice
- First event: 14 January 2026
- Second event: 11 March 2026
- Give online feedback and view supporting files
Essich Road (Inverness)
- View the public notice
- First event: 19 January 2026
- Second Event: 19 February 2026
- Give online feedback and view supporting files
Embo (Sutherland)
- View the public notice
- Clarification on development partner intentions
- First event: 29 January 2026
- Second Event: 5 March 2026
- Give online feedback and view supporting files
If you wish to find out more about what an MCA is, how it will accelerate development, and why we have chosen the 3 initial sites, then read the latest MCA Committee Report.