Sutherland Woollen Mill in Brora has this week been placed on the market by Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE).

The 11,500sq.m.complex, set in 17.5 acres of land, until earlier this year leased from Caithness and Sutherland Enterprise (CASE) by a textile firm, is being advertised for sale in property publications and the local and national press.

The sale of the complex and its surrounding land is being undertaken by property consultants Ryden for HIE.

CASE chief executive Carroll Buxton said it was a priority for the local enterprise company to ensure that in the long term the complex makes a positive contribution to the economy of the area.

She added: "After receiving a number of expressions of interest it was agreed to offer the building for sale or long term lease on the open market.

"The assessment process will involve all bids being judged against a number of previously agreed criteria, based on the strategic priorities of the network, in order to ensure the building contributes as fully as possible to the Sutherland economy.

"The sustainability of proposed uses and any potential indirect impacts will also be assessed, but HIE is not bound to accept the highest or any offer."