Rok is progressing on the new Centre for Health Science in Inverness, the first of its kind to be built within the UK.

The pioneering centre, being built next to Raigmore Hospital Inverness, will provide academic and practical simulation facilities to medical and dental students from the Universities of Stirling, Aberdeen, and the UHI Millennium Institute.

Rok was appointed as the builder under its framework contract with Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE).

Mark Douglas, Commercial Manager for Rok said: "This is a satisfying and technically challenging project. The facilities at the Centre for Health Science are going to be world class and will really help put the Highlands & Islands on the map for expertise in health sciences."

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The European Regional Development Fund is contributing to the project, with the remainder of the funding coming from HIE. Work to the site is being carried out over three phases: phase one saw the development of academic facilities including a large on-site library while phase two installed real-life simulation suites together with a full size "simulation" ward.

The final stage - phase three - is due to conclude by the end of this year with a range of practical provisions including science labs and a clinical research facility for research into diabetes and other conditions. The site will also provide business start-up space, enabling the nurturing of spin-off business from academic research and to attract inward investment.

Mark Douglas added: "Rok is proud to be involved in developing this unique facility - one which I am sure will prove to be immensely beneficial to the continued success of health and biotechnology research within the Highlands and Islands. The work has progressed extremely well and we expect it to be complete by the end of this year."

Rok provides general building and maintenance services across the UK and is particularly active in the affordable housing, education, insurance and health sectors.

(GK/JM)