Caithness and Sutherland - area overview

Caithness and Sutherland covers a large, relatively sparsely populated area at the very north of mainland Scotland.

It is an area of dramatic contrasts. The landscape features iconic mountains and flat, rolling moorlands. High tech industry sits side by side with abundant, diverse wildlife. Economic fragility remains a challenge for several communities, especially in north and west Sutherland.

The former nuclear power plant at Dounreay, which ceased generating electricity in 1994, was at one time the largest employer in Caithness. Today, it continues to play a significant role, as highly technical decommissioning work is scheduled to continue for several years.

Offsetting the major loss of employment which Dounreay decommissioning will eventually cause is a prime focus of Highlands and Islands Enterprise in the area.

HIE's area team also sees great economic potential in harnessing the renewable energy of the Pentland Firth, and developing John O' Groats as a high quality visitor attraction.