One is for a new life sciences innovation centre on plot 15, and the other is a ‘modular village’ development for small business units on plot 14.
The 2700m² life sciences innovation centre is a joint project between the developer of Inverness Campus, Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE), and the University of the Highlands and Islands.
It will operate in close partnership with NHS Highland and the proposed Elective Care Centre also planned for Inverness Campus.
The centre aims to build on the successes of the Centre for Health Science, which is situated in the grounds of Raigmore Hospital.
Lead design consultancy firm Austin-Smith: Lord was appointed to take the project through the design and consenting stages, with a planning application expected to be submitted within the next few weeks.
The “modular village” will be a plot of small buildings that can be developed quickly and fabricated off-site. They will be aimed at commercial organisations, such as those in the life science and technology sectors, who are looking to collaborate with academia and research bodies.
Engineers, Will Rudd Davidson, were appointed to design the infrastructure roads, utilities and landscaping for the plot at the south end of the site.
Both contracts were awarded by HIE prior to the COVID-19 lockdown restrictions, and contractors are working from home.
Ruaraidh MacNeill, HIE’s Inverness Campus project director, said:
“We are very pleased to be able to progress these projects safely in light of the current restrictions around COVID-19.
“The life sciences innovation centre will create new technology-based commercial opportunities and high value careers. It will also support the continued growth of the University of the Highlands and Islands through new education and research opportunities.
“The modular village will see options for new and flexible types of commercial buildings on the site, that are in keeping with the quality building and environmental standards of Inverness Campus. When complete, it will offer flexibility to the growing organisations who are benefiting from the advantages of Inverness Campus as a business location.”
The University of the Highlands and Islands element of the life sciences innovation centre secured £9 million from the UK Government through the Inverness and Highland City-Region Deal. The Deal is a joint £315 million initiative supported by both the UK and Scottish governments. The project will also be part-funded by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) European Structural Funds Programme 2014-2020.
Cabinet Secretary for Transport, Infrastructure and Connectivity Michael Matheson said:
“Scotland is recognised as a world leader for our work in the life sciences and innovation sector, so it’s hugely encouraging to see this project take a significant step forward. This is also yet another example of a business in Scotland adapting how they do things to support long-term productivity and economic growth - despite the challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic.
“The Scottish Government has committed up to £135 million to the Inverness and Highland City Region Deal. This, combined with the package of support we have announced for businesses across the country, will help Scotland’s communities survive this crisis and thrive in future.”
UK Government minister Douglas Ross said:
“It’s really welcome news that progress is being made on the life sciences innovation centre at the University of the Highlands and Islands during these unprecedented times. The £315 million city region deal initiative continues to create high value jobs and attract further investment and new businesses to the area.
“Research and innovation is the jewel in the crown of our world-leading higher education sector and we are working closely with universities and other partners to provide stability during these difficult times, including the creation of cross-UK Ministerial Taskforce on research sustainability.”
Related Articles
Island resilience fund opens
HIE will manage the fund on behalf of Scottish Government
Community sports hub secures £400k support
The Inverness Caledonian Thistle Community Development is leading the £1.28m project, which will create five jobs and around 50 volunteering opportunities.
Recruitment under way for next Chair of Highlands and Islands Enterprise
The Scottish Government has begun recruitment to appoint a new Chair for the Board of development agency Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE).
Iomairt na Gàidhealtachd ’s nan Eilean a’ sireadh Cathraiche ùr
Tha Riaghaltas na h-Alba air tòiseachadh a’ trusadh gus Cathraiche ùr fhastadh chun a’ Bhùird aig a’ bhuidheann leasachaidh Iomairt na Gàidhealtachd ’s nan Eilean (HIE).
Planning application for Inverness Campus
HIE’s application is for permission to establish infrastructure, such as roads and utilities, to create serviced plots for sale to developers.
Mallaig catering company to expand and create jobs
Bloom & Graze Ltd is developing half of the town’s railway station building to form its new premises.
HIREP unveils ten-year strategy for regional growth
There’s a focus on renewable energy and the need to maximise economic and community benefits while driving the transition to net zero.
New shellfish processing plant to create jobs in Buckie
Over the next three years, the project is expected to generate nearly £1m in turnover and create 12 new jobs.
Argyll seafood firm expands
The work involves the redevelopment of the company’s existing marine hatchery facilities, including new tanks, controls, lighting, water circulation and energy efficiency measures.
HIE funding for community innovation campus in Easter Ross
A £1.6m project to boost the Easter Ross economy through net zero initiatives, community learning and development has been awarded up to £450,000 from HIE.
New tenant welcomed to Inverness Campus
The move will help facilitate the company’s further growth. Its corporate and compliance team of ten will relocate to Aurora House, with the company’s operational base remaining in Beauly.