The regeneration of the former Fort William Secondary school building in Lochaber is taking shape.

With work on Phase 1 drawing to a close, the Highland Council has announced the large B-listed building, which includes the modern extension which will accommodate the Department of Works and Pensions and Job Centre Plus on the ground floor, will be called Charles Kennedy Building.

The name is in tribute to the work of the late Charles Kennedy MP who attended Lochaber High School and represented the Highlands from 1983 until 2015.

The regeneration project has transformed the listed building into new Council offices, with staff set to begin moving into the new facility within the next few weeks.

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The second phase of the scheme involves the redevelopment of the adjacent former Fort William Primary School to provide a records store and public archive as well as providing office space for partners.

Cllr Blair Allan said: "This project is a significant development for the town and brings back to life a much loved building close to many people's hearts.

"Charles Kennedy was educated in Fort William and throughout his career was hard working and dedicated to the communities he represented. I think it is very fitting that the new offices which will serve the local community well for many years to come be named in his honour and I would like to thank his family for giving their support."

Lochaber Committee Chair, Cllr Andrew Baxter, added: "The new office will allow us to deliver our services more cost-effectively and efficiently. The net annual revenue saving to the Council will be around £100,000 after meeting the capital financing costs.

"By providing a modern, flexible, accessible working environment we are bringing benefits to both staff and customers and freeing up more buildings in the town centre to create more future development opportunities."

(LM)