Work is due to start shortly on a £475,000 development aimed at attracting inward investors and much-needed new jobs to one of Shetland's island communities.

The contract to build advance office/workshops for four potential new businesses on the island of Yell has been awarded to local firm Jamieson and Bruce.

Construction on the project, financed jointly by local enterprise company Shetland Enterprise, part of the Highlands and Islands Enterprise network, and the European Regional Development Fund, will start in the New Year, with completion due by next August.

The growing need for good office and workshop accommodation on the island was highlighted by a number of inquires to Shetland Enterprise last year.

A derelict quarry in Sellafirth was identified as a suitable site to build two 1,130 sq. ft. semi-detached workshops suitable for a range of businesses, including offices, service industries, crafts and trades.

Shetland Enterprise spokesman Rae Tulloch said: "This is an exciting project which promises to provide opportunities to businesses to start up on Yell.  This will ultimately result in more employment opportunities for the community."

He added: "Already negotiations are ongoing with one computing business wishing to expand."
 
Yell Community Council has welcomed the initiative and is actively involved in assisting the local enterprise company to find suitable clients for the units.