Aberdeen's Inverdee House, home to two SEARS (Scotland's Environment and Rural Services) bodies has been officially opened by Rural Secretary Richard Lochhead.

The opening marks the latest SEARS co-location following the success of last year's Golspie opening and will ensure closer working between the two organisations.

The new building is also based on an eco-friendly design and is one of only five buildings in Aberdeen to have achieved a BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method) excellent rating.

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Mr Lochhead said: "This Government is committed to providing an efficient service to the taxpayer, and helping to develop closer working between partners within the public sector.

"SEPA and SNH are active partners in SEARS, and their sharing of office space in Aberdeen will enhance the closer working between two bodies with shared customers.

"A shared reception and office management service also makes the best use of public sector assets and the whole project demonstrates this government's record in improving the effectiveness of public service delivery.

"I am delighted that the Scottish Government was able to commit £8.1 million of funding to support the construction of Inverdee House, which also sets the standard in terms of eco-friendly design and operation."

(GK)