Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) has awarded a £1.8 million contract to Morgan Sindall Construction and Infrastructure Ltd for the construction of four new business units at Wick Business Park. This development aims to bolster economic growth and population retention in Caithness.

The new units, each comprising approximately 122m² of commercial floorspace, will be twice the size of those completed in the park's first phase. They will also offer flexibility to be combined into larger premises. The units will feature photovoltaic panels, EV charging points, and air-source heat pumps, contributing to net-zero goals.

The premises are expected to attract companies within the renewable energy supply chain, given Wick Harbour’s role as the operations and maintenance base for the Beatrice Offshore Windfarm. They will also provide expansion opportunities for local businesses.

Construction is scheduled to begin in mid-April, with completion expected by the end of the year. The development is projected to create 26 full-time equivalent jobs over the next few years.

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HIE is investing a total of £2.25 million in the project, as part of a broader initiative to provide small business units in rural areas. Caithness and Sutherland is a key focus area for HIE’s inclusive growth strategy, and this development is expected to stimulate economic activity and support population growth.

Eann Sinclair, HIE area manager for Caithness and Sutherland, said: "There’s a lot of interest in new flexible commercial premises in Wick, from local firms looking to grow or companies from elsewhere looking to establish or extend operations here. These new units are designed to meet the needs of different types of commercial activity and office space. The development is also designed to meet modern standards of insulation and energy performance, embracing our wider net zero aspirations. I’m delighted we’ve now awarded this contract and look forward to seeing the units progress over the coming months.”

Stuart Parker, managing director at Morgan Sindall Construction in Scotland, said: "We are excited by our appointment at Wick Business Park project - a flexible, sustainable commercial space designed to attract diverse businesses to the region. This project aligns with the growth in renewable energy across the Highlands. By incorporating photovoltaic panels, EV charging points, and air-source heat pumps, we're establishing an ecosystem where businesses can thrive while contributing to net zero goals. When we break ground in April, we’ll also be laying the foundation for lasting socioeconomic benefits. That's the great additional value of projects like this - turning construction investments into opportunities for local people."