Graham Construction is working with communities in the Western Isles to create employment opportunities. It has also been engaging with local businesses on the Lews Castle Museum and Archive project.

Four members of the local community have been based at the historic site since works started in August this year, while six sub-contractor businesses have contributed specialist skills to ensure the success of the project to date.

Colly Meehan was recruited as a telehandler operator in August while bricklayers James Watson and Ally Mackenzie have been employed on the project since September. Harris native Chris MacVicar is supervising the ongoing restoration works at the existing castle, bringing his extensive joinery expertise to repairs.

In addition, a number of Isle of Lewis sub-contractors have also been appointed to ensure the success of the construction works. Environmental consultancy firm Calluna Consulting initially completed a nesting bird survey and the Stornoway Trust advised the Graham team ahead of vital tree felling works following the outcome of the study, while Stornoway-based Lewis Builders were responsible for the initial site set-up and are currently engaged in temporary electrics to works areas.

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Two other local firms have also been awarded contracts. Civil engineering, plant hire and haulage specialist Duncan McKay & Son's has managed all ground works including site clearance, drainage, foundations and floor slabs, while DJ Macaulay has just commenced vital works on concreting the foundations of the new museum and the restoration works.

William Munro Construction of Inverness handled the recently completed demolition works.

Gary Holmes, regional director for Graham Construction said: "GRAHAM Construction has a policy of involving local labour on all our projects, working with local talent where possible.

"The technical nature of the works on this historic site demands a broad set of specialist skills for complex conservation and maintenance works and it is rewarding to see so many of these within the local community.

"The construction will provide a boost for the local economy over the next two years and throughout the project we will endeavour to maximise opportunities for local sub-contractors, labour and suppliers."

Graham Construction is the main contractor for the Lews Castle Museum and Archive project. The £8.5m contract includes a new museum and archive extension on the site of the former glasshouses as well as extensive works to repair and restore the historic interior of the Castle.

Construction works started in August 2013 with completion and opening expected by summer 2015.

(JP/IT)