Work is continuing on a multi-million pound project to build a new Research and Innovation Campus in Orkney.

Kirkwall-based R Clouston Limited are carrying out work to refurbish, update and extend the old Academy and former Stromness primary school buildings, as well as improving roads, paths and landscaping. The Old Academy is already home to the European Marine Energy Centre, Heriot Watt University's International Centre for Island Technology, environmental consultants Aquatera and number of other businesses.

The new 3.75-acre campus will support the growth of existing research and innovation activity and the expansion of companies in Orkney's marine renewables, energy and low carbon sector. It will also attract additional research activities to Orkney, both from the commercial and academic worlds.

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Overall, it will aim to attract more academic institutions and businesses with an interest in carrying out research projects in an island setting.

A recruitment drive is now underway to find a Chair of the new ORIC, with experience people holding a wide range of skills in the UK energy sector being invited to apply.

Graeme Harrison, HIE area manager in Orkney, said: "We look forward to recruiting a Chair for ORIC who will provide leadership for the research and innovation campus. We are currently working with the contractor and with OIC in bringing this important development to fruition.

"The centre will support the growth of existing businesses and the creation of new ones as well as provide more opportunities to attract and retain young people to live, work and study."

Council Leader James Stockan said: "We are very pleased to have reached this stage of the ORIC project. The campus will be a tremendous stimulus for research and innovation activity in Orkney and will have a positive impact on economic prosperity across all areas of our community. The Chair will play an important role in driving this forward, so this is a key appointment for the project."

(LM)