The Scottish Government is being urged to consider bringing the former Nigg oil yard into public ownership.

The Highland Council Convener Sandy Park and Leader of the Administration Michael Foxley have jointly written to John Swinney, Cabinet Secretary, encouraging him to consider the direct acquisition of the yard by the public sector. The Highland Council is liaising closely with key partners including Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE).

In the letter, the councillors said: "We are sure you will have been as disappointed as ourselves by the decision of KBR not to proceed with the redevelopment of the Nigg Yard as a fabrication facility for the offshore wind industry.

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"Now that this decision has been made, however, there is an urgent need for concerted action to take matters forward.

"The Highland Council is likely to continue to pursue the option of undertaking a compulsory purchase of the Yard. You will be aware, however, that this is by no means a quick process.

"We feel that it is essential therefore to pursue alternative means of securing the early release of the Yard as a major asset for the Highlands and Scotland. In particular we would like to encourage you to consider the direct acquisition of the Yard by the public sector. We have had discussions with key partners, including HIE, in the past few days and appreciate that there would need to be additional resources to be able to do this.

"We are aware of alternative development proposals for the yard but these do not necessarily meet the objectives of the National Renewables Infrastructure Plan. Both of the yards in Scotland which are active in the offshore renewables market, namely Arnish and Methil, are in public ownership."

The council feel decisive action is needed at this time and say they would value an early meeting with the government to discuss this urgent matter.

(GK/BMcC)