Building materials supplier Norbord has revealed plans to invest £95 million at its oriented strand board (OSB) mill in Inverness.

The move will upgrade the Dalcross facility's continuous press technology and also double its production capacity.

In addition, the Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) will provide up to £15 million towards the project.

It is understood the expanded facility will continue to be sustainable, including generating its own heat energy from the biomass wood residue that is a byproduct of the production process.

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Karl Morris, MD of Norbord Europe, said: "Demand for OSB is increasing rapidly and this investment will ensure we can continue to meet customers’ needs and remain at the forefront of the European industry.

"Our SterlingOSB product manufactured in Inverness is the UK’s leading OSB brand, and with direct road, rail and port access the reinvested mill will be in an even better position to efficiently serve our customers across the UK and in continental Europe. This investment underscores Norbord’s long-term commitment to Inverness and the Highlands region, and we look forward to continuing to play an important role in the community."

The project is anticipated to be completed in the second half of 2017.

(LM)