Natural Retreats and Heritage GB's plans for the first stage of a multi-million pound redevelopment of John o'Groats, Scotland, have been given the green light.

Proposals drawn up by Edinburgh-based architects GLM were given the go-ahead by Highland Council, which is designed to rejuvenate one of the country's most iconic locations. The work will include the alteration and extension of the former John o'Groats Hotel to provide self-catering holiday apartments and the creation of new detached holiday properties.

Food and beverage facilities will also be extended as part of the first stage, which Natural Retreats and Heritage GB said will use environmentally-friendly construction methods. Natural Retreats managing director Matt Spence said: "John o'Groats is a world famous destination and being able to play a part in helping to restore it to prominence with the kind of development this location deserves is something we are incredibly proud to be involved with."

Work is ongoing between the developers and the council, along with Highlands and Islands Enterprise, to draw up proposals for the second phase of the scheme. The public realm harbour area and a new visitor centre will form part of the next stage.