HIElights October/November - issue 9

LOCHBOISDALE CAUSEWAY

JOHN O’GROATS REGENERATION

OIL AND GAS TASKFORCE

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lights Driving sustainable economic growth across the Highlands and Islands

October/November 2013

Issue No. 9

Publicly funded broadband rollout starts - Page 13

WELCOME / FÀILTE Welcome to HIElights, a regular update on the activities of Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE).

HIE is a non-departmental public body of the Scottish Government, with a unique remit which integrates economic and community development. Active across half of Scotland, from Shetland to Argyll and from the Hebrides to Moray, HIE pursues four priorities to achieve sustainable growth: • Supporting businesses and social enterprises to shape and realise their growth aspirations • Strengthening communities and fragile areas • Developing growth sectors, particularly distinctive regional opportunities • Creating the conditions for a competitive and low carbon region HIE has an annual budget of more than £75m and employs around 250 people based in locations around the Highlands and Islands.

Ambitious for Scotland | Àrd-Amasach airson Alba

IN THIS ISSUE Arran Aromatics expands Raasay House rises again Community broadband director Scalpay plans for future Harris business units Whisky by rail from Speyside HIE and UHI plan new premises Stay up to date with HIE’s work across the Highlands and Islands at www.hie.co.uk or follow us on Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.

www.hie.co.uk

October/November 2013

OUR PRIORITIES

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Supporting businesses and social enterprises to shape and realise their growth aspirations A’ toirt taic do ghnìomhachasan is iomairtean sòisealta gus na h-amasan aca a dhealbhachadh agus a’ ruigsinn

CAPGEMINI APPRENTICES GRADUATE The first group of young people to complete a new Highlands Apprenticeship Programme at Capgemini UK graduated at the company’s new North of Scotland centre in Inverness.

The programme is an important part of the company’s plan, with HIE support, to create up to 500 new high-tech jobs in the Highlands over the next three years.

(L-R) Kenny MacLeod, RT Hon Alex Salmond MSP, Douglas Cowan of HIE, and Murdo MacLeod

FIRST MINISTER OPENS ARGYLL BUSINESS LOCATION First Minister Alex Salmond has opened an innovative property venture in Campbeltown.

Local contractor MacLeod Construction Limited bought the site of the former Jaeger factory from HIE in 2010 and created the Mull of Kintyre Industrial Estate on the site.

Demand for the space has been high, with all units fully let to a range of local businesses.

HIE provided £96,743 to the family-run building company through the EU-approved Scottish Property Support Scheme.

Mr Salmond said, “The level of demand and range of businesses occupying the new

business units is very encouraging and a sure sign that Campbeltown is on the up. I’m determined that, together with HIE, our other agencies and the local authority, the Scottish Government will continue to support business development in the town and throughout Kintyre.”

Douglas Cowan, HIE’s Area Manager for Argyll and the Islands, said, “We are delighted to see the site of the former factory back in use, and so many companies expanding and creating jobs locally. The Scottish Property Support Scheme is a model we would like to see used again as a sustainable way of supporting the private sector to provide infrastructure.”

TOBERMORY PRODUCE FLYING HIGH An award winning bakery from the Isle of Mull has secured a number of new contracts, including one to provide biscuits for the executive lounges of British Airways.

HIE has assisted Island Bakery Organics, based in a new purpose-built factory on the

outskirts of Tobermory, with £18,600 towards the purchase of equipment to meet growing demand for their product.

This investment is expected to see an increase of £400k in turnover and the creation of four full-time jobs.

Ambitious for Scotland | Àrd-Amasach airson Alba

First Minister Alex Salmond congratulated the graduates, adding, “Having met some of Capgemini’s talented staff and management in Inverness in April, I’m particularly pleased that the company is now ahead of schedule in its plans to double the workforce in the Highland capital, with many more apprentices set to benefit.”

Capgemini has also revealed significant progress in its recruitment plans, having been attracted by HIE and SDI to double its Inverness workforce to around 1,000. The outsourcing specialist has already recruited 170 new employees and is continuing to seek people with IT work experience, new graduates keen to work in technology, and school-leavers interested in joining the Highlands Apprenticeship Programme.

EXPANSION FOR SHETLAND FIRM HIE is supporting the growth of a Shetland welding business with £30,000 funding towards a new fabrication building.

The new facility for Scott Welding and Fabrication, based at Whiteness, will allow the business to go full time and capitalise on opportunities in the aquaculture and energy sectors. Established by Managing Director Gary Scott in 2006, the firm provides high quality steel fabrication services to clients in the fishery and aquaculture industries. The business has a high quality reputation with clients in Shetland, mainland Scotland and Norway and its products are distributed to Chile, Greece and Asia. www.hie.co.uk

October/November 2013

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ARRAN AROMATICS WINS BUSINESS INVESTMENT Arran Aromatics, Scotland’s leading manufacturer of luxury products and gifts, is planning expansion after securing a £2.8m investment from the Business Growth Fund (BGF).

BGF is an independent fund, backed by five of the UK’s main banking groups, to help UK businesses.

HIE has worked with founders Janet and Iain Russell over many years as the business has built up its global brand, with Saudi Arabia in particular becoming a key market. The company now employs 120 staff and exports to over 30 countries.

Arran Aromatics plans to increase its retail stores from 10 to 14 in the next two years and has launched a new e-commerce website for consumer and trade customers.

LUXURY CLOTHING BUSINESS CELEBRATES 30 YEARS

(L-R) Raine Maclennan, HIE, Clive Hartwell, Skyeskyns, Jess Hartwell, Skyeskyns, Robert Muir, HIE and Lydia Hartwell, Skyeskyns.

Skye based Skyeskyns, manufacturer of finest quality sheepskins, is marking its 30th anniversary this year by planning for future success.

Founder Clive Hartwell said, “We are really proud to be a family business that is steeped in tradition and history but also eager for growth and for reaching new markets.”

As part of its growth plan developed with HIE, the business has forged links with other high quality suppliers, including Johnstons of Elgin, and will sell a range of their cashmere, merino and other wool products.

Robert Muir, HIE’s area manager for Lochaber, Skye and Wester Ross, said, “Skyeskyns is an important part of the local community. With its focus on quality and customer care, and its ambitious attitude, it has been a pleasure to help the business grow steadily over this time.”

The full range of Skyeskyns’ products is sold from its workshop and showroom on Skye and online at www.skyeskyns.co.uk

SHETLAND CHAMBER IN PROSPECT HIE is supporting the Shetland business community to explore setting up a chamber of commerce.

ULLAPOOL WORKSHOPS Six new workshops in Ullapool were opened in September by HIE Chairman, Professor Lorne Crerar.

HIE supported Ullapool Harbour Trust with a £220,000 grant towards the £1.3m development, which represents a further stage in the development of Morefield Industrial Estate. The completed site is a mix of commercial land and industrial units built by local firm Ullapool Construction.

Professor Crerar, said, “HIE has worked with Ullapool Harbour Trust to broaden its harbour activities and diversify into other sectors to secure long-term sustainability. These new facilities create opportunities for businesses

Team from Ullapool Harbour Trust and HIE at the new workshops

looking to expand as well as those looking to locate to Ullapool.”

Half the workshops are initially scheduled to accommodate fishing-related businesses, with the remaining three available for general commercial occupancy.

Ullapool Harbourmaster Kevin Peach said, “HIE, as always, has been incredibly supportive throughout the entire process. We’re really pleased with the work carried out by Angus and his team at Ullapool Construction and believe it’s a fantastic demonstration of the professionalism, skills and expertise delivered by a local company.”

Ambitious for Scotland | Àrd-Amasach airson Alba

The agency held a business breakfast in October to share information with business owners, directors and staff on the role of a chamber, including benefits, operational practicalities and support available.

Rachel Hunter, HIE’s Area Manager, said, “A chamber of commerce is an opportunity for local private businesses to work in collaboration and have a strong collective voice on shaping the economic landscape in Shetland. It could provide the business perspective on issues such as housing, investment and industry transition to maximise opportunities and ensure Shetland continues to be a successful, sustainable and diverse community.”

www.hie.co.uk

October/November 2013

CAMPBELTOWN PICTURE HOUSE PLANS MAJOR DEVELOPMENT Having celebrated the centenary of the Campbeltown Picture House earlier this year, its community owners are planning another ambitious redevelopment project.

SUMMER PLACEMENTS BENEFIT BUSINESSES

The total estimated cost of delivering additional facilities at the Picture House is £2.4m. If funding can be secured, work could be completed by April 2017.

Over 30 university students brought new thinking to Highlands and Islands businesses over the summer thanks to this year’s ScotGrad Summer Placement Programme, part-funded by HIE.

HIE helped fund the introduction of digital equipment at the cinema and has supported Campbeltown Community Business achieve to submit an application to the Heritage Lottery Fund.

During eight to 12-week placements, students worked on topics rangingd from developing new products, marketing and social media to reviewing and improving processes.

The development would contribute to the rejuvenation of South Kintyre, adding to the impact of other significant HIE investments over recent years, including restoration of The Royal and The Ugadale hotels.

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(L-R) HIE Chief Executive Alex Paterson, runner-up Ryan Sutherland, winner Robert Anderson, and runner-up Nicola MacKinnon.

Many of the students gathered in Inverness to present their findings in a dragons’ den style competition in August. The winner was Glasgow University student Robert Anderson, from Shetland, who developed an information system for Lerwick firm NB Communication Ltd. David Nicol, NB Managing Director, said, “We are thrilled with what Robert has been able to achieve in 12 weeks. We would never have had him if it wasn’t for the scheme.”

FLOTTA FIRM JOINS INTERNATIONAL PLAYER Specialist processing company Opus, which has a base on the island of Flotta in Orkney, has completed a deal to join international oil services provider Aker Solutions.

With around 40 employees, Opus is a leader in oil/water separation and has established unique testing facilities in Orkney.

HIE’s Graeme Harrison said, “HIE is delighted to have helped facilitate the significant growth of Opus’ operations on Flotta in recent years. The acquisition is testament to the groundbreaking work that has been carried out by Opus and we are delighted for its Orkney team as they look forward to the opportunities that this development will bring.”

HIE ANSWERS CAIRNGORM QUESTIONS HIE Chief Executive Alex Paterson outlined the agency’s future plans for Cairngorm Mountain at an information day in Aviemore on Monday 14 October.

Cairngorm and secure the sustainable future of the business, which attracts thousands of visitors every year and helps underpin the local tourism sector.

A detailed procurement exercise is currently under way to try to identify a new operator to run Cairngorm funicular railway and associated snowsports and visitor facilities on HIE’s behalf.

Two bidders are now taking part in a process known as ‘competitive dialogue’ with HIE – Natural Retreats UK Ltd, and Serco Leisure Operating Ltd.

Mr Paterson explained that the ultimate aim is to attract new private investment to

Ambitious for Scotland | Àrd-Amasach airson Alba

The Aviemore meeting was co-chaired with Grenville Johnston, Chairman of present operator CairnGorm Mountain Ltd. www.hie.co.uk

October/November 2013

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OUR PRIORITIES Strengthening communities and fragile areas A’ neartachadh choimhearsnachdan agus sgìrean dùbhlanach

NEW CAUSEWAY SIGNALS LOCHBOISDALE PROGRESS A major milestone in the £10m regeneration of Lochboisdale project has been reached with the creation of a causeway linking Rhubha Bhuailt with Gasay Island.

HIE supported the project through feasibility and design, and committed £5m. Comhairle nan Eilean Siar contributed £625k grant funding.

Local contractor MacInnes Bros will build up the causeway to its full height and width over the coming months.

The current construction work is due to be complete by February 2015. A new 51-berth marina, with associated shore facilities, will then be ready to welcome visitors and Gasay Island will be available for commercial development. Rhubha Bhuailt will also provide land for new housing.

Coming just a week after the announcement of a three-year trial for a LochboisdaleMallaig ferry service, the causeway is another important boost to the regeneration of the local economy.

Community landowner Stòras Uibhist aims to attract local businesses and new commercial tenants to Lochboisdale, helping drive an economic revival for the area.

Rachel MacKenzie, HIE’s Area Manager for Innse Gall, said, “The Lochboisdale Port of Entry is one of the most important projects to be undertaken in South Uist for generations and we are delighted to be supporting such an ambitious and significant investment.” www.storasuibhist.com

HIE APPOINTS COMMUNITY BROADBAND SCOTLAND DIRECTOR One of Scotland’s leading bankers is heading a national programme aiming to bring broadband connections to the country’s hardest-to-reach communities.

Mark Tate, formerly HSBC’s Head of Commercial and Business Banking in Scotland, has taken up the post of Development Director for Community Broadband Scotland (CBS).

Having led strategic projects for HSBC in Scotland, the UK and Kazakhstan, Mark is relishing the challenge of leading a highly ambitious initiative which will make a key contribution to the Scottish Government’s vision of Scotland as a world class digital nation by 2020.

Administered by HIE, CBS is funded by the Scottish Government and involves Scottish Enterprise, COSLA, the Carnegie UK Trust and National Park authorities. It aims to provide support, expertise and funding to communities in the most challenging locations to help them deliver their own broadband solutions.

Mark Tate said, “Digital connectivity is increasingly an essential part of our everyday lives. Being part of CBS provides me with an opportunity to work with some great people focused on finding ways to close the digital divide between the hardest to reach communities and the rest of Scotland.”

Deputy First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said, “We are delighted to welcome Mark, who has global credentials in commercial project management, on board to lead Community Broadband Scotland. The Scottish Government is committed to helping our most remote communities find solutions to the technological broadband challenges they face.”

Over £410m of public and private sector funding is being invested through the Scottish Government’s Step Change programme, which will deliver next generation broadband access to 95% of premises in Scotland by 2017.

Ambitious for Scotland | Àrd-Amasach airson Alba

Mark Tate

www.hie.co.uk

October/November 2013

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HIE team at Raasay House official opening

FROM THE ASHES: RAASAY HOUSE REOPENS A West Highland community is celebrating the multi-million pound restoration one of the region’s most stunning community-owned landmarks.

Initially set to reopen in 2009, Raasay House faced a huge setback when, following over a year of restoration work, a fire gutted most of the building.

Undaunted, Raasay House Community Company Ltd (RHCC), with the support of HIE, The Big Lottery Fund and Historic Scotland,

started again on the £4.5m development.

The community company bought the historic house and walled garden from HIE in December 2007. The magnificent building is a dramatic focal point for the island and delivers income to be reinvested in community projects.

RHCC Chairman David Westgarth said, “The community has worked so hard on this project for such a long time and to see the finished result makes every minute worth it.”

Raasay Outdoor Centre Ltd, a major economic driver on the island, has returned to the house and is already attracting a wide range of clients.

HIE Chairman, Professor Lorne Crerar, said, “The refurbished Raasay House is superb and, as a community-owned asset, it has the potential to deliver enormous social and economic benefits for local people.”

ISLAND SAVES ONLY SHOP A small island community has saved its only shop from closure.

Raasay Stores serves 150 islanders with daily essentials and was put up for sale last year.

When no private buyer could be found, the community formed a steering group to try to take over the shop.

They succeeded in raising £180,000, with support form HIE, Investing In Ideas, Village SOS, The Prince’s Countryside Trust, and £10,000 from selling shares to local people.

David Carslaw and community members celebrate the opening

David Carslaw, Community of Raasay Retail Association Store Manager, said, “The local shop is so important. If there is nowhere

Ambitious for Scotland | Àrd-Amasach airson Alba

people can go to pick up their groceries then they will start to move away. This could threaten the school and other services and then the community is finished.”

Other Scottish communities which have taken over shops provided advice, including Staffin, Sleat and Jura. The hope now is that Raasay Community Store can increase its turnover in the same way that those other communities, and become a cornerstone of the community for generations to come.

Across the Highlands and Islands, HIE is helping communities to sustain facilities such as shops and filling stations through community ownership. www.hie.co.uk

October/November 2013

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HEBRIDES FUEL PROJECT IS SCOTTISH FIRST Residents of South Lochs in the Outer Hebrides, who currently have to make a 40mile return trip to their nearest filling station, will benefit from 24-hour access to unleaded petrol and diesel.

comprises a community shop, cafe, a 14-bed hostel, and the Islands Book Trust, along with cultural attractions including exhibitions on Calum Kennedy and other local musicians, a museum and historic archives.

Scotland’s first community fuel service using an above-ground storage tank was officially opened in October.

HIE’s Jane Macintosh, said, “Co-chomunn na Pàirc has made an enormous effort to develop a range of services for the community and we look forward to seeing the pump operational.”

The future management of an Outer Hebrides island by its own community has taken another step forward with a grant from the Scottish Land Fund (SLF).

John Randall, Chairman of the Co-chomunn na Pàirc, said: “It will make a tremendous difference to our community and greatly enhance our facilities at Ravenspoint. It will save many wasted journeys and has the potential to transform the way people view the idea of living in or visiting South Lochs.”

Two years ago, Fred Taylor, offered the island Scalpay, off Harris, as a free gift to its 300 residents. Following a vote, the islanders decided to join the North Harris Trust (NHT), integrating the two communities.

Community co-operative Co-chomunn na Pàirc runs the Ravenspoint Centre at Kershader on behalf of the community of South Lochs. It received funding from the Big Lottery Fund, the Muaitheabhal Trust, and HIE to establish the new fuel service.

Based in a former school building from the 19th century, the social enterprise now

Scalpay

LAND FUND HELPS ISLANDERS

SLF’s £60,330 grant means islanders can take forward plans for the 702-hectare Scalpay Estate, which includes most of Scalpay itself and another seven uninhabited islands.

The grant will support conveyancing costs as well as a development officer to create opportunities for business expansion in the marine, recreation and tourism sectors by improving land, infrastructure and property.

John Randall, Alasdair Allan MSP, Jim Suff and Jane MacIntosh HIE

Scalpay resident and NHT director Sheila Rodderick said, “I am very happy to have been given the chance to take part in this momentous step forward and look forward - with the assistance of the NHT - to seeing the potential of resources and people being realised and the turning of a new page in the history of Scalpay.”

A’ CHIAD SHEIRBHEIS CONNAIDH CHOIMHEARSNACHD ANN AN ALBA

Launched last year, the £9m Scottish Land Fund is funded by the Scottish Government and delivered by HIE and the Big Lottery Fund.

Chaidh a’ chiad sheirbheis connaidh choimhearsnachd a tha a’ cleachdadh tanca os cionn an talamh airson connadh a’ stòradh ann an Alba fhosgladh anns na h-Eileanan an Iar san Dàmhair.

COMMUNITY AMBITION

Tha Co-chomunn na Pàirc a tha a’ ruith Ionad Ravenspoint aig Ceirseadar as leth a’ choimhearsnachd aig Ceann a Deas na Lochan, air maoineachadh fhaighinn bhon Maoin an Crannchur Mòr, Urras Muaitheabhal agus £25,000 bho Iomairt na Gàidhealtachd ‘s nan Eilean airson gum bi sheirbheis connaidh ri fhaighinn anns an sgìre iomallach seo.

‘S urrainn do muinntir an àite peatrail agus dìosail fhaighinn uair sam bith bhon phump agus chan fheum iad siubhail còrr is 40 mìle agus air ais chun an stèisean peatrail as fhaisge.

Thuirt Sine Nic an Tòisich, Ceannard Neartachadh Choimhearsnachdan airson na h-Innse Gall: “Tha HIE air a bhith ag obair gu dlùth leis an iomairt shòisealta seo airson còrr is sia bliadhna a-nis agus tha e math a bhith a’ faicinn an t-seirbheis connaidh ùr ga chur a-steach.”

Thuirt John Randall, Cathraiche Co-chomunn na Pàirc: “Aon uair sa tha a’ phump a’ dol, ni e diofar mhòr dhan a’ choimhearsnachd agus bi barrachd ghoireasan an uairsin aig Ravenspoint. Sàbhalaidh seo bho a bhith a’ siubhail airson connadh agus cuidichidh seo daoine a thàladh gus fuireach neo tadhal air Ceann a Deas nan Lochan”

Ambitious for Scotland | Àrd-Amasach airson Alba

HIE is helping a community trust pursue ambitious plans on Argyll’s Cowal peninsula.

Following previous success in refurbishing two village halls, the community-run Colintraive and Glendaruel Development Trust has been awarded £174,000 for a new energy efficiency project called Greener ColGlen.

This will involve a wood fuel pilot project and community food growing and composting.

It ties in with the ongoing development of Stronafian Forest, which the trust bought and began managing early this year. www.hie.co.uk

October/November 2013

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MOBILE CINEMA TO REACH EVEN MORE RURAL COMMUNITIES A mobile cinema covering the Highlands and Islands will continue to reach rural communities and deliver a full cinematic experience to even more audiences.

HIE is supporting Regional Screen Scotland (RSS), the operator of Screen Machine, with a grant of £45,000 for the next two years. The project is also supported by Creative Scotland.

An 80-seat, air conditioned cinema, Screen

Machine is marking 15 years on the road by expanding its selection of films as well as holding a series of one-day film festivals. New venues include the islands of Sanday, Hoy, Stronsay, Westray, Eigg, Rum, Coll and Tiree.

The support from HIE also enables RSS to offer advice and information on film skills development. Both Thurso Cinema and Oban Phoenix Cinema received assistance from RSS for venue development and technical

specifications, while Campbeltown Picture House continues to receive assistance with ambitious redevelopment plans.

Rachael McCormack, HIE’s Director of Strengthening Communities, said, “HIE has supported the Screen Machine since the beginning and we are delighted to assist this project which also aims to deliver a substantial increase in the number of community cinemas.”

HARBOUR DEVELOPMENT FOR BARRA An Outer Hebrides firm has been awarded a £1.5m contract to construct a new harbour at Ardveenish, Isle of Barra.

Macinnes Brothers is developing a modified box harbour which will safeguard a vibrant local fleet essential to the long term future of fish processing and exporting from Barra.

The harbour construction is made possible through £1.25m from Comhairle nan Eilean Siar, £283k from the Coastal Communities Fund and £125k from HIE. It is anticipated that construction work will be completed by August 2014.

pleased to be supporting the community in Barra with this project which creates a significant opportunity to increase economic activity in the fisheries and aquaculture sector.”

Joanna Peteranna of HIE, said, “We are

Ambitious for Scotland | Àrd-Amasach airson Alba

www.hie.co.uk

October/November 2013

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SEIRBHEISEAN GHÀIDHLIG DO GHNÌOMHACHASAN

HARRIS BUSINESS UNITS

Tha HIE air cunnradh na Gàidhlig (CnaG) Gàidhlig a’ libhrigeadh coimhearsnachdan shòisealta.

Construction will soon begin on the first new business space on Harris in over a decade.

a thoirt do Comunn airson seirbheisean do ghnìomhachasan, agus iomairtean

airson fiosrachadh mionaideach fhaighinn bho gnìomhachasan, coimhearsnachdan, buidhnean agus iomairtean shòisealta a tha a’ cleachdadh a’ Ghàidhlig mar so-mhaoin.

Cuireadh an taic seo ri margaideachd agus margaidean ùra, ùr-ghnàthachadh agus an sgeama greis gnìomhachas airson oileanaich.

Bi CnaG a’ riaghladh na sgeamaichean agus a’ mhaoineachadh de £145 mìle as leth HIE. Bi an cunnradh a’ tighinn gu crìoch anns an Dùbhlachd 2014.

Tha an rannsachadh ag amas air na dòighean as fhèarr Gàidhlig a’ chleachdadh, airson fhaighinn a-mach de na cothroman a dh’ fhaodadh a bhith ann gus barrachd Gàidhlig a chleachdadh mar stòras agus stiùireadh a’ leasachadh air mar is urrainn do HIE agus nam compàirt taic a thoirt seachad dha na diofar roinnean.

Chaidh DC Research fhastadh le HIE agus compàirteachan anns an t-Òg Mhìos

HIE is investing over £300,000 to support two community trusts to develop business units. The West Harris Trust is to deliver six business units and community facilities at Ruba Romagaigh. The North Harris Trust (NHT)plans to build zero carbon business units in the east Tarbert area.

Local firms are already showing interest in the units and it is hoped that the community can attract growing businesses to the area which would create new employment.

NHT Chair Calum Mackay said, “There is a renewed sense of optimism and confidence in the area, and support from agencies like HIE has been fantastic. Lack of jobs is the biggest issue facing our small community.

This project will create first rate facilities that will attract new and growing businesses from near and far.”

HELPING AN LANNTAIR SHINE BRIGHTER An Lanntair, the flagship cultural venue in the Outer Hebrides has created a new post to draw up a development strategy to 2020.

Claire Byers is to head up the An Lanntair 2020 Programme to support the Stornowaybased enterprise to refresh its creative mission and ensure its continued cultural and financial success.

GAELIC SERVICES TO BUSINESSES HIE has awarded Comunn na Gaidhlig (CnaG) a contract to deliver Gaelic services to businesses, communities and social enterprises.

The agency’s support will increase the use of Gaelic as an asset in marketing and emerging new markets, business innovation and the continuation of a successful student placement scheme. CnaG will manage applications to all three schemes, which have a total value of £145,000. The contract will be

in place until December 2014.

In June, HIE commissioned DC Research, with partners, to gather detailed information from businesses, communities and social enterprises which are currently using or could potentially use Gaelic as an asset.

The programme is funded by Creative Scotland, HIE and Comhairle nan Eilean Siar.

An Lanntair Director Roddy Murray, said, “The significant support of our partners for the 2020 programme is a great vote of confidence in An Lanntair and its staff, and a recognition of the important role we play in the cultural and economic life of the islands. Claire’s experience and skills will be a great asset for the programme and we are looking forward to her joining the team.”

The research aims to identify examples of best practice in using Gaelic as an asset and highlight any potential areas for future investment by HIE and its partners.

Ambitious for Scotland | Àrd-Amasach airson Alba

www.hie.co.uk

October/November 2013

OUR PRIORITIES

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Developing growth sectors, particularly distinctive regional opportunities A’ leasachadh roinnean fàis, gu h-àraidh cothroman sònraichte na sgìre

The Inn at John O’Groats

JOHN O’GROATS INVESTS IN QUALITY A former hotel in John O’Groats has been restored and extended over the past two years and is now the centrepiece of the town’s ongoing regeneration.

The opening of the Inn at John O’Groats comes just a year after Natural Retreats unveiled its £6m project in the area with partners Heritage GB and HIE, which contributed £1.8m.

HIE Chief Executive Alex Paterson said, “This significant tourism investment at John O’Groats has transformed this internationally renowned location, and will bring many benefits not only to the local area but to the wider Highland and Islands.”

The Inn features high quality self-catering apartments with one, two or four bedrooms,

each offering its own individual character.

Twenty-three luxury eco lodges also form part of the development, along with a co-operative café selling goods from local businesses and a new centre where visitors can book activities such as a sea safari, bike hire and guided walks.

SCOTLAND ‘LEADS THE WORLD’ IN MARINE ENERGY Scotland, and in particular the Highlands and Islands, is continuing to lead the world in the development of marine energy devices.

That was the clear message from HIE Chief Executive Alex Paterson, opening the annual Scottish Renewables Marine Energy Conference, attended by 300 delegates and 45 exhibitors in Inverness in September.

“More wave and tidal energy devices are currently deployed at the European Marine Energy Centre (EMEC) in Orkney than at

any other single site in the world,” said Mr Paterson. “Scotland also has more marine energy projects under way or in planning than any other country.

Prior to the conference Energy Minister Fergus Ewing revealed that work is to begin on the largest tidal turbine energy project in Europe.

MeyGen is to install the tidal array in stages in the Pentland Firth, between Orkney and the Scottish mainland. It will begin with a 9MW

Ambitious for Scotland | Àrd-Amasach airson Alba

demonstration project of up to six turbines, with construction expected to take place on a phased basis until 2020. MeyGen hopes a second phase would eventually see up to 400 submerged turbines at the site, generating some 398MW. Mr Ewing also announced that developers Aquamarine Power Limited and Pelamis Wave Power are to share a slice of a £13m wave “first array” support programme. The award is part of the Scottish Government’s Marine Renewables Commercialisation Fund.

www.hie.co.uk

October/November 2013

OIL AND GAS TASK FORCE TO ENERGISE NORTH A new task force is bringing together industry expertise to expand the oil and gas supply chain across the north of Scotland.

New offshore developments and continuing investment in the global industry, mean more opportunities for businesses from across the north to support Aberdeen’s position as Europe’s energy capital.

Chaired by Energy Minister Fergus Ewing, the task force will focus on skills, supply chain, location and infrastructure. It will bring senior industry representatives and leading trade body Energy North together with HIE, SDI, Scottish Enterprise and Skills Development Scotland.

Mr Ewing said, “This taskforce is all about looking at future opportunities and working together to achieve increased investment and prosperity for the area.”

One of its main objectives is to establish the north of Scotland as a new oil and gas hub, and relieve some of the existing pressures currently faced by Aberdeen.

Calum Davidson, Director of Energy and Low Carbon at HIE, said, “ Alongside major investments in offshore wind and wave and tidal projects in the waters around the Highlands and Islands, oil and gas investments in the North Sea and west of Shetland are rising to a level not seen since the 1980s.

“The north of Scotland has a well established skilled and experienced supply chain already supporting subsea activity around the globe and we welcome this increased focus on the region’s expertise in the oil and gas sector, supporting Aberdeen as one of the world’s great oil and gas cities.”

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HIGHLANDS AND ISLANDS TRAVEL WISHES GRANTED A new online guide is being launched to fulfil the wishes of travellers who want to see the Highlands and Islands by rail, ferry, bus, and coach.

Journey Genie uses maps and links to give detailed information on travel ideas, public transport routes, visitor attractions, and accommodation.

The full version of the website allows visitors to explore the region and to plan, save and edit itineraries – from simple day trips to complex multi-day tours. Journeys can start at any point in Scotland.

A mobile version allows tourists to access and change plans whilst on the move, and obtain real-time updates on travel services.

The project is funded by HITRANS, HIE, and the EU Northern Periphery Programme’s TransTourism project. Associate partners are Calmac Ferries, Stagecoach, First ScotRail, Traveline Scotland, Visit Scotland, Destination Loch Ness, Cairngorms Business Partnership, and the University of Aberdeen Tony Jarvis of HIE said, “We hope Journey Genie will encourage more visitors to take advantage of our excellent transport networks and strengthen the region’s position as a world-class sustainable tourism destination.” www.journeygenie.co.uk

A NATURAL HOME FOR RAIL LIFTS THE SPIRIT FROM SPEYSIDE LIFE SCIENCES (L-R) Tony Jarvis HIE Senior Development Manager for Transport Senior Development Manager , Cllr Fiona Murdoch, Moray Council and Frank Roach HITRANS Partnership Manager.

Scotch whisky is travelling by train from Speyside to central Scotland in a bid to cut road journeys and emissions.

Programme. It runs until mid-November when its longer-term feasibility will be judged. Major producers backing the project include.

The ‘Lifting the Spirit’ project is designed to reduce lorry movements on busy roads, test an alternative transport option for the expanding whisky industry and assess environmental benefits.

Trains run twice a week from Elgin to Grangemouth, and there is potential to carry other products such as casks, malt and barley.

Launched in September, the trial is backed by Diageo, Chivas Brothers, John Dewar & Sons, Whyte & Mackay and Glen Turner and led by transport partnership HITRANS with support from HIE, Moray Council and the Food Port project, part of the EU’s North Sea Region

Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs and the Environment Richard Lochhead said, “The Scottish Government is keen to see more goods moved by rail or water, where this is commercially viable, to ease traffic congestion and help the environment. I welcome this project and look forward to seeing its results.”

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Around 100 experts from across the world gathered at Dunstaffnage in Argyll in September to attend the Natural Products Scotland Conference 2013. Organised by HIE and hosted at the European Marine Science Park and Scottish Association for Marine Science, the two-day conference featured keynote presentations from two leading scientists from the internationally-renowned Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT).

The focus of the conference was on products derived from our region’s natural environment such as seaweed, crops and microalgae extracts and their application in drug discovery, bio-energy, nutriceuticals and cosmetics. www.hie.co.uk

October/November 2013

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LEWIS MUSICIAN MAKES SCANDINAVIAN DEBUT Isle of Lewis based singer/songwriter Colin Macleod recently returned from a successful ten-date tour of Sweden and Norway.

The artist looks set to make his name as the latest Scottish export to hit the big time in the music industry. The tour included three performances at Sweden’s leading conference and showcase festival Live at Heart which came about through goNorth’s participation in the Excite Project.

CULTURE DAY BENEFITS MORAY An inaugural Moray Culture Day, organised by Findhorn Bay Arts Festival, attracted around 3,000 people, generating an estimated spend of £100,000, to Kinloss, Forres and Findhorn on 21 September.

With funding from HIE, Creative Scotland, LEADER and community grants, the event

aimed to raise awareness of Moray as a thriving cultural hub.

Next year, organisers plan to launch an annual five-day festival, introducing people to activities that they may not have experienced before, such as film-making, dance, drama, poetry and sound recording.

GoNorth and the music trade network are directly supported by HIE to provide specialised support to the sector.

Iain Hamilton from HIE, said, “Not only is Colin working at this level but by being signed to a successful label in the region shows the increasing strength of the whole industry infrastructure. It is all testimony to his talent and commitment that he looks set for an even brighter future.”

ORKNEY’S GLOBAL CONNECTIONS HIE’s Orkney area team has hosted an unprecedented number of international business visitors, showcasing the islands’ global lead in marine energy activities.

Since 2012, almost 200 business groups have witnessed the unparallelled range of marine energy testing taking place in the waters around Orkney. Groups have come from 22 countries including Australia, Korea, USA, Canada, New Zealand, China and Japan.

As well as showcasing the area, the visits present local supply chain companies with opportunities to widen their scope and influence. Orkney knowledge-based consultancy companies in particular have experienced impressive growth in international markets.

and Orkney Islands Council. In October, HIE supported EMEC to hold a successful international symposium celebrating its tenth year of operation. This attracted over 30 international delegates interested in establishing and operating marine energy test sites.

The European Marine energy centre (EMEC) is a main focus of attention, as is the availability of onshore infrastructure provided by HIE

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www.hie.co.uk

October/November 2013

OUR PRIORITIES

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Creating the conditions for a competitive and low carbon region A’ cruthachadh àrainneachd airson sgìre le comas farpais is nas lugha de charbon

(L-R) Stuart Robertson, Director of Digital Highlands, HIE, Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs Richard Lochhead, and Robert Thorburn, Programme Manager BT Highlands and Islands

NEXT GENERATION BROADBAND ROLLOUT TAKES OFF More than 16,000 homes and businesses on the outskirts of Inverness and along the coast into Moray will be the first to benefit from a multi-million pound public investment in fibre broadband.

The £146m rollout is led by HIE and BT, who are funding the project with the Scottish Government and Business Development UK. It aims to bring faster broadband to around 84% of premises across the Highlands and Islands by the end of 2016.

Stuart Robertson, HIE’s Director of Digital Highlands and Islands, said, “This is by far

the most challenging rural broadband rollout in the UK and we are delighted that our first communities will be accessing services within months.

By 2020, HIE’s ambition is that everyone in the Highlands and Islands will be able to access broadband download speeds of at least 30 Mbps.

“Commercial rollout taking place across the UK would have reached no more than one in five premises in the Highlands and Islands.

So the project’s target of 84% coverage levels for the region will represent a significant step change.”

The October announcement was the first in a series of quarterly updates as the fibre network rolls out across the region. Anyone interested in superfast broadband rollout can keep up to date on a new Scotland wide website www. scotlandsuperfast.com being introduced by the Scottish Government.

BT is to lay more than 800km of fibre backbone cable on land, and 400km more via 20 subsea crossings as part of the project.

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www.hie.co.uk

October/November 2013

DIGITAL EXPERTISE SHARED AT DIGITALK EVENT Last month, around 30 entrepreneurs attended the first ever Digitalk event in Inverness.

Organised by HIE as part of the IT Engagement Programme and held in conjunction with local radio station MFR and Business Gateway, the informal evening helped give businesses the answers to their technology questions and get tips from experts.

MFR’s Nicky Marr hosted the night which had sessions in social media, using new digital technologies and an introduction to the Raspberry Pi. Digitalk was held in local awardwinning social enterprise Artysans Cafe.

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ENTERPRISE AGENCY AND UNIVERSITY PLAN COLLABORATION A new collaborative centre, designed to host research and education and attract investment and jobs to the Highlands and Islands, is being discussed by two of the region’s foremost organisations.

HIE and the University of the Highlands and Islands (UHI) are proposing to build shared premises at Inverness Campus, the 215-acre site which HIE is developing as a location for business, learning and community activities in the east of the Highland Capital.

The joint venture could include shared office accommodation, teaching, research and laboratory facilities, and a space to showcase the region’s pioneering role in some of Scotland’s key economic sectors, including renewable energy and life sciences.

Earlier this year, HIE announced it would be quitting Cowan House, having successfully attracted business services provider Capgemini to base 500 new jobs there. If the

plans go ahead, more than 150 posts currently based in HIE’s Inverness and Dingwall offices will be relocated to the Campus.

UHI activities at the centre will complement the new Inverness College UHI already under construction at Inverness Campus.

HIE Chief Executive Alex Paterson said the proposals presented an innovative venture for the Highlands and Islands. “We don’t believe there’s anywhere else in the UK where a university and an economic development agency have the chance to collaborate so closely, on a daily basis, in shared premises,” said Mr Paterson.

“Our plans combine ambitions to broaden the region’s research base in new directions, provide HIE with a new HQ in the city, and create a new marketing centre to promote inward investment opportunities across the whole of the Highlands and Islands.

Teaching staff, and the HIE and AccuNostics teams

CLASSROOM TO LAB FOR MORAY SCHOOL STAFF Thirty teaching staff from Moray have come out of the classroom and into the workplace to explore new job opportunities for future generations of pupils. HIE hosted an event at Horizon Scotland, in the Enterprise Park Forres, in September. Teachers spent the afternoon with businesses to discuss

opportunities available to school-leavers now and in the future.

The school teams, many of whom support their pupils as they consider their career paths, heard from life sciences company AccuNostics, the Craigellachie Hotel, and

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international IT firm Atos, among others.

David Oxley, HIE area manager in Moray, said, “Events like this provide the chance to explore the opportunities young people will look for when choosing whether to live and work in this amazing part of the world.” www.hie.co.uk

October/November 2013

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ENGAGEMENT Working with government and parliament Ag obair leis an riaghaltas agus a’ Phàrlamaid

HIE BOARD MEMBER TO CHAIR UNIVERSITY COURT The University of the Highlands and Islands has appointed businessman and HIE Board member Steve Thomson as Chair of its court.

Tiree resident Mr Thomson built up a successful global business, Concise Aerospace, which he sold in 2012. He has been an active contributor to island life, involved in many community ventures including Tiree Community Broadband and Tiree Renewable Energy.

“The University of the Highlands and Islands is a key component in the successful and sustainable development of the region,” said Mr Thomson, adding that he was “proud and excited” to be building on the work of those who strived to achieve university status.

He replaces Professor Matthew MacIver CBE, who stands down as UHI Chair later this year.

Steve Thomson

HIE OUTLINES PROGRESS TO MSPs

SWEDISH MISSION

HIE Chief Executive Alex Paterson and Director of Finance Forbes Duthie, appeared before the Scottish Parliament’s Economy, Energy and Tourism Committee in September.

HIE welcomed a delegation of senior development leaders from Sweden’s most northerly region to the Highlands and Islands in August.

The panel of MSPs representatives of and Visit Scotland to of their scrutiny of the 2014-15 budget.

had invited HIE and Scottish Enterprise give evidence as part Scottish Government’s

ambitious plans to roll out next generation broadband across the region.

Broadband was also the subject of an informal MSP briefing session in Edinburgh early in November.

Subjects covered included investment plans, support for SMEs, EU funding, equalities, renewable energy, next generation broadband rollout, and social enterprises.

Later the same week, Mr Paterson gave evidence to the Rural Affairs, Climate Change and Environment Committee on HIE’s

Chief Executive Alex Paterson

The mission, designed to share good business practices, included regional politicians and officials of the Invest in Norrbotten Agency.

Earlier this year the area celebrated the opening of a major Facebook data centre.

Jorgen Eriksson, CEO of Invest in Norrbotten, said, “HIE provides an outstanding example of how a region located in the North of Europe can compete successfully to attract and retain investment. There are many similarities between the Highlands and Islands and Norrbotten, not just our economic profile but also our commitment to working through partnerships.”

2014 LEGACY FOR HIGHLANDS AND ISLANDS HIE has created a new post within its inward investment team to ensure that the region benefits from the legacy of the world class events being held in Scotland next year.

2014 will be a landmark year as ‘Scotland Welcomes the World’ by staging the Commonwealth Games, the Ryder Cup and Homecoming, as well as participating in the Queen’s Baton Relay.

Head of 2014 Events team Anna Allan

A range of activities is already planned, including the staging a series of sector conferences across Scotland’s major cities.

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These provide an unprecedented opportunity to showcase Scotland, and the Highlands and Islands within it, on an international stage and to build a sporting, social, cultural and economic legacy.

HIE’s Anna Allan, has been appointed Head of 2014 Events team to enhance the profile and global reputation of the region and to exploit opportunities for existing businesses and potential investors. Anna previously led marketing and PR initiatives for HIE’s Energy and Low Carbon team.

www.hie.co.uk

lights www.hie.co.uk info@hient.co.uk Published by Highlands and Islands Enterprise, Cowan House, Inverness IV2 7GF All images are copyright Highlands and Islands Enterprise.

All written material Crown Copyright.

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