The West Highlands is an ’ever-growing force’ in Scotland’s economy, according to the region’s development agency.
Alastair Nicolson is area manager for Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) in Lochaber, Skye and Wester Ross and has reflected on recent media coverage about the challenges facing rural parts of the region.
However, he insists ‘the glass is more than half full’.
He said: “While we’re certainly not without the many challenges detailed in the articles, the West Highlands is nevertheless a growing force in Scotland’s economy.
“There’s so much going on here, from small scale developments to larger longer-term projects. This is having a significant cumulative impact on Lochaber’s economic fortunes in the wake of some extremely challenging years. It’s also providing opportunities that many young people look for.”
His blog, entitled ‘Quest of the West’, points to examples such as SSE’s pumped hydro storage project at Coire Glas, Scotland’s largest infrastructure project under development this century. It also refers to developments by Kishorn Port limited, plans by Alvance, and the confidence of other inward investors.
Alastair also highlights moves by local companies such as Sonas Hotel Group (Skye), the Isle of Skye Candle Company and Highland Soap Company, which have all expanded recently.
He added: “It’s no surprise that there’s full employment here, with demand for labour even exceeding supply in many sectors – particularly hospitality. Yes, that in itself presents challenges, particularly around talent attraction and housing, but those challenges stem from a good place and work is progressing to address them.
"The glass is in fact more than half full and attracting and accommodating more economically active people will unlock yet further potential.”
In the context of these examples, as well as the Fort William 2040 Masterplan and housebuilding programmes in Fort William and Skye, he added: “Each of these initiatives demonstrates the power of partnership and what can be achieved through collaboration.
"With sustained investment and by working together, we can and will realise new opportunities, attract new talent and investors, and enhance the contribution the West Highlands makes to Scotland’s economy.”
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