Welcoming new members to the Chamber group!

It’s been another busy month for us and we’re thrilled to have welcomed another two businesses to enjoy the benefits of being in our Chamber network.

• The Ulbster Arms Hotel is situated in Halkirk, on the banks of the river Thurso. It boasts comfortable rooms and lodges and they’re currently refurbishing the dining room ahead of its sold out grand reopening in March.
• Miller Coffee is a new business with a passion for supplying quality coffee to shops and coffee shops around the UK.

To learn about how Chamber membership could benefit your business, see the Membership benefits page or get in touch with Fiona Levack, Business Development Manager to arrange an informal chat. The Chamber offers advice and support to businesses of all sizes, at all stages and in all sectors and we would be thrilled to hear from you.

In addition to chamber membership, many of our funded projects offer support and guidance to businesses in a range of ways. See the list of options, here.

Did you know that we offer a membership referral scheme? If you refer a business who joins the chamber, you could benefit from £50 off your next renewal. Read more here.

Norscot are very excited to announce the launch of their newly designed Timber Frame Kit Home and Windows & Doors and websites!

After many months of hard work and dedication, Norscot are delighted to officially announce the launch of their new websites.

The aim while designing the sites was to make the new websites faster, easier to navigate, and more user-friendly, and it the company’s belief that through innovative ideas and forward-thinking design they have achieved this!

The goal with the new website is to provide visitors with a relaxed and pain-free navigation experience. The website’s new streamlined design allows users to access the appropriate information quickly and effectively, maximising the quality of each visit.

To find out more, click here to visit the Norscot website!

The latest generation of small communications satellites could be launched into Earth orbit from the northern Highlands of Scotland within the next two years.

Development agency Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) has submitted a planning application for a vertical launch site, Space Hub Sutherland, that it plans to construct on the A’ Mhoine peninsula, Melness, near Tongue.

If the application is approved, construction on Europe’s first vertical launch site could begin later this year, with launches starting as early as 2022.

In time, up to 12 launches a year could be made from Sutherland, carrying small, commercial satellites that will typically be used for Earth observation.

An economic impact assessment submitted with the planning application estimates that developing the space hub would create around 61 high quality jobs in Caithness and Sutherland, an area where the population is falling and unemployment levels are above average.

Forty-four of these jobs would be in Melness and Tongue. Skills required on-site will include mechanical and electrical engineering, weather monitoring, control room operations, ground services, security, management and marketing.

A total of around 250 well-paid jobs are expected to be generated across the region and at national level, including through manufacturing and supply chain opportunities.

HIE has approved up to £17.3m to design and build the space hub, made up of funding from HIE itself (£9.8m), the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority (£5m), and the UKSA (£2.5m).

Designed by NORR Architects, the facility would comprise a launch control centre, a single launch pad and associated infrastructure, including roadways, fuel storage, office premises, and antennas. A temporary lightning tower would also be installed at the launch pad around flight days.

The planning application includes measures to address and minimise impacts on the land and marine environments. HIE aims to make the project carbon neutral and has spent two years gathering data and assessing potential effects on wildlife and the local habitat which is characterised by large areas of peatland. Levels of light and noise that could be generated, especially around launch times, are also examined.

Artist impression of the proposed Space Hub Sutherland. Credit NORR Architects

David Oxley, director of business growth with HIE, believes that establishing vertical launch capability will mark a major advance for Scotland’s growing space sector.

“This is a truly unique and innovative venture that aims to create the first launch site of its kind in Europe,” said Mr Oxley.

“Space presents a huge economic opportunity for Scotland, and the Highlands and Islands is well placed to benefit substantially.

“Even before the space hub is built, we’ve already received a huge vote of confidence from launch company Orbex, who established a manufacturing facility in Forres just over a year ago.

“That’s an indication of the wider economic benefits that will be generated by establishing a launch facility, and there is great potential for more to follow in other parts of our region.

“We’re very mindful of the need to respect the natural environment and have been diligent in designing measures that will minimise the environmental impact of construction and operations.

“We’ve also held numerous public events and the current shape of the project has been informed by the views of local people and statutory consultees.

“Now that the application is in, we very much hope that people will take the time to study our plans carefully and look forward to the council making a decision in due course.”

Emma Floyd, commercial spaceflight director with the UK Space Agency, said:

“Satellite launch from the UK is due to take another giant leap forward with the progress at Sutherland and other sites across the UK.

“We’re committed to backing our growing space sector, which generates an income of £14.8 billion and creates thousands of high skilled jobs.”

VIEW THE PLANNING APPLICATION

You can view the planning application on the Highland Council website.

Whether you’re new to accounting, have already worked in a finance role, or are looking for skills to help you work from home, our suite of AAT accounting qualifications can help you build the career you want.

Through each qualification, you will learn practical skills to prepare you for the workplace from basic finance administration skills through preparing final accounts and complex management accounting tasks. All study is completed through our Virtual Learning Environment and you will be supported by one of our lecturing team.

Courses starting week commencing 17th February 2020:

• AAT Foundation Certificate in Accounting (SCQF 5)
• AAT Advanced Diploma in Accounting (SCQF 6)
• Foundation Award in Accounting Software
• Foundation Certificate in Bookkeeping 
• Advanced Certificate in Bookkeeping

Contact nhcinfo@uhi.ac.uk or 01847 889250 for more information or course enquiries.

The next contract to operate the Northern Isles Ferry Services will be awarded to Serco NorthLink Ferries by the end of March.

Transport Scotland has now completed its engagement with the European Commission in relation to outstanding state aid issues. CalMac Ferries has also withdrawn its legal action.

In order to complete the award process and allow a mobilisation period, the current contract has been extended by a period of up to six months to ensure continuity of services for Orkney and Shetland.

Minister for Energy, Connectivity and the Islands Paul Wheelhouse said:

“I’m very pleased these issues have been resolved so that we can now start to focus on the award of the new contract and the benefits it will bring to the communities that are served by these lifeline ferry services.

“These include customer focused enhancements, such as extra premium cabins, terminal lounge refurbishment at Hatston and extended opening hours for customer services.

“We want to support key sectors of the Northern Isles’ economies, such as tourism, fishing, food and drink, aquaculture and farming. With these sectors in mind, the new contract will also include the flexibility to allow timetabled freight and ferry services to be amended to better reflect changes in future demand.

“All these improvements, coupled with the three year fares freeze and cabin discounts that came into effect on the first of January, underline the Scottish Government’s commitment to providing high quality ferry links to and from the Northern Isles.”

Source: Transport Scotland

The Dornoch Area Community Interest Company (DACIC) is absolutely delighted to announce that it has become the new owner of the former Dornoch Police Station following a successful Asset Transfer Request from Police Scotland, which included a 5% discount from market valuation in acknowledgement of the significant community benefit that will ensue from the community ownership of the building. The acquisition was funded by the Scottish Land Fund.

Following extensive community consultation, the renovated building will house a business hub with offices, a creative hub with studios and workshops and a health & well-being hub with a much-requested gym.  There will be a community room available for a range of activities including a youth club, a coding club, healthy eating sessions and dementia inclusive craft workshops.   There is also a conference room on the first floor and a ground floor meeting room that can be hired by the hour by local businesses and organisations.  There will be an IT hot desk facility, with potential for one to one IT training.

The former Police Station includes a four-bedroom hostel, which it was hoped could be transformed into a childcare centre. However, in July the childcare provider indicated that they are no longer able to proceed. DACIC has since developed alternative plans for the old hostel accommodation, in consultation with the local hotels and Royal Dornoch Golf Club all of whom have a need for affordable staff accommodation during the tourist season. Four rooms will be available for seasonal staff and in the winter DACIC will work with TYKES in Golspie to offer respite accommodation for young carers and their families.

Joan Bishop, chair of The Dornoch Area Community Interest Company (DACIC) says “DACIC is absolutely delighted to see this project coming to fruition and is extremely grateful to the financial support from the Scottish Land Fund and the co-operation of Police Scotland in the Asset Transfer Request. All parties have worked well together to enable this 1980’s building in the centre of historic Dornoch to become a community owned asset and be transformed into the Dornoch Hub. This exciting project will deliver benefits to the whole community – especially the gym which has been on the wish list for over a decade. ”

Chief Inspector Jamie Wilson shakes hands with Joan Bishop, Chair DACIC. In back row left to right: Gordon Sutherland, Secretary DACIC, Catherine Moodie, Community Development Manager DACIC, Liz Howard Development Manager Highlands & Islands Enterprise and Scottish Land Fund, Iain Levens, Levens Studio

John Watt, Scottish Land Fund Committee Chair said: “I am delighted that the Scottish Land Fund has been able to help The Dornoch Area Community Interest Company to bring this locally important building into community ownership. They have some very exciting plans for the future and are a great example of how a community can transform ambition into reality.”

Local architect Iain Vaughan Levens of Levens Studio was appointed to lead the design team. Planning permission and building warrant have been obtained and we expect to issue a request to tender on the Public Contract Scotland shortly. DACIC has secured grants of £50k from the Town Centre Fund and £50k from Beatrice Windfarm Ltd and await the outcome of other bids to complete the transformation from the former Police Station to the Dornoch Hub.  Thirteen businesses have noted their interest to rent office, creative and hostel space. The gym will be leased to operator Silverback Gym of Tain who are making a significant investment in equipment.

Chief Superintendent George Macdonald, Divisional Commander for the Highlands, said,  “The community asset transfer represents a really positive new chapter for a police building which has been much under-utilised for many years and we will continue to provide the required policing cover for the Dornoch community from nearby Golspie and Tain.  We wish the Dornoch Area Community Interest Company well with this exciting venture”

DACIC appointed Catherine Moodie as Community Development Manager in charge of Fundraising in January 2019 and Kerri Stevens as Project Manager in August 2020. Together this represents a full-time post which has been funded by Beatrice Windfarm Ltd. and the Dornoch Common Good Fund.

For further information, please contact Joan Bishop, Chair, DACIC joan.bishop@outlook.com

A quick roundup of news and blog posts from around the web from members of the Chamber:

Care & Learning Alliance – Parentzone Scotland – I am an engineer!

A recent newsletter from the Northern Alliance highlighted the website Parentzone Scotland for supporting Family Engagement. This website is a tool to support parents ‘be at the heart of their child’s learning’ by providing useful information on a broad range of topics including curriculum, schools, additional support needs and ideas for supporting their child’s learning at home.

Highlands & Islands Airports Ltd – New FAQ section for ATMS Programme

HIAL announced its plans to introduce a remote tower air traffic management system (ATMS) in January 2018 and since then HIAL staff, the Unions and key stakeholder groups have been kept informed on all aspects of the review from its inception.

HRI|Munro Architecture – Update January 2020

January update from HRI|Munro Architecture

Lyth Arts Centre – Imagine

Lyth Arts Centre and Imaginate are collaborating in 2020 to support an artist to explore a new theatre and/or dance performance idea for young audiences and undertake a period of practical research towards a new piece of work.

Dunnet Bay Distillers – BBC Saturday Kitchen featuring Rock Rose Gin

Episode of popular Saturday Kitchen, featuring local Rock Rose Gin.

Highland Council –  increasing pace to build a sustainable future

A national audit report has highlighted the Highland Council’s clear strategic vision and the increased pace of change to ensure long term financial sustainability, accountability and ambition.

North Lands Creative – ISGNE AiR – Sophie Longwill

A blog entry from Sophie Longwill, Artist in Residence at North Lands Creative.

Scrabster Harbour – Weekly Update (24th January 2020)

An update from Scrabster Harbour

Ashley Ann – plans to create new jobs

UP to 40 new jobs are set to be created by a Caithness company over the next five years following an investment of more than £2 million in its Wick base.

GDES – SAFETY II: The New Positive Approach to Safety and the Human Factor

GDES has started progressive implementation of the SAFETY II philosophy in its work teams. A new positive and collaborative approach to safety focused on what is done well and what keeps the workplace accident rate at zero.

Caithness Voluntary Group – Nominate for the Young Scot Awards 2020

The Sunday Mail Young Scot Awards 2020 are now open for nominations. Do you know any incredible and inspiring young Scots who deserve recognition? 

Caithness Voluntary Group – Robertson Trust Main Grant & Small Awards

Please note that the last date on which The Robertson Trust will accept applications for their Main and Small Awards is 5pm on Friday, 28th February 2020.

John O’Groats Brewery – Time for a Move

We are delighted to be able to announce our plan to move into the Last House at John o’Groats where we will open our gleaming new brewery, along with shop and a tasting bar….all going well.

Highland Council – Vehicle restrictions at Highland Council Household Waste Recycling Centres

From the 3rd February 2020, The Highland Council will be introducing vehicle restrictions at Household Waste Recycling Centres (HWRC).

This is just a short roundup of stories we’ve spotted over the past two weeks. We are always keen to promote good news and events on our members’ behalf, so contact us today if you’ve got something to share!

SIMEC Atlantis Energy said that its 6MW tidal energy project MeyGen has exported close to 25 gigawatt hours (GWh) of renewable electricity to the national grid.

MeyGen exported over 13.8GWh of renewable electricity in 2019, according to Atlantis’ operational update, equivalent to the average annual electricity consumption of around 3800 typical UK homes generating a revenue of £3.9 million.

Phase 1A of MeyGen operates with 5 ROCs and had generated total revenues since operations started of £7.1 million as at the end of 2019.

Tim Cornelius, CEO of Atlantis, said: “I am delighted to report that MeyGen has now exported a remarkable 24.7GWh of predictable renewable energy. Not only is this world-renowned project helping the UK meet its Net Zero ambitions, but it is also providing valuable performance data which can be used to inform future projects, demonstrating MeyGen’s importance as a global prototype.”

The AR1500 turbine is due to undergo maintenance and will be transported to land for servicing and upgrade work at the end of this month, with redeployment at MeyGen targeted for the spring. The upgrade should increase the turbines revenue by 4% with no increase in the turbines operating cost.

During 2019, Atlantis announced its intention to develop the next phase of its MeyGen array which will see an additional 80MW of tidal capacity added to the existing project site between the island of Stroma and the mainland. Atlantis intends to design, consent and build the world’s first ocean-powered data centre near the MeyGen site, connected to the tidal array via a private wire. A concept study has been completed with design underway to include a connection to the Celtic Norse subsea fibre optic cable currently in development. Atlantis is exploring connections to other international fibre optic cables as well.

“MeyGen holds a 398MW seabed lease and our data centre expansion project is world leading for a number of reasons. The cost of tidal power continues to reduce and this is being assisted by the sustained pressure the offshore wind market places on the supply chain domestically and abroad,

“The world’s most valuable resource is no longer oil but data, and by combining tidal power with stranded onshore wind farms in close proximity to MeyGen, we can create a virtual power plant to provide sustainable power to a data centre in Scotland, creating important new fibre connections for Scotland and the UK in the process,” added Cornelius.

Source – https://marineenergy.biz/