Edinburgh-based housebuilder Applecross plans to develop a number of homes on the Eskbank campus of Jewel and Esk Valley College.

The firm has acquired outline planning for 140 houses over more than 15 acres and as such has been named preferred bidder by the college's board of management.

Managing director of Applecross Colin Cumberland stated that the company was "delighted" to have been appointed to develop the site.

"This area around Eskbank is growing in popularity due to its excellent transportation links and rich mix of historic buildings and complementary new-build housing ... we are aware for the demand of good quality family housing," he added.

Mr Cumberland concluded that the firm is familiar with the area due to its other developments in the region.

In recent days, housebuilders Cruden Homes stated that consumers need to hurry if they wish to snap up one of the few remaining properties at its Genesis development in the city.