Council to keep up pressure for Nigg redevelopment

21st January 2010

Members of The Highland Council's Planning, Environment and Development committee have unanimously agreed to keep up the pressure on KBR to make a clear decision about the company's intention for the Nigg Fabrication Yard in Easter Ross.

Members also agreed that the Council write to both the Scottish Government and National Government to acknowledge their support to date and requesting their continued support to ensure the considerable potential of the site, which would bring economic benefits to the whole Highlands, is realized.

Chairman Councillor Ian Ross said: "It is a disappointment that KBR have delayed making an announcement about their decision to turn the unused oil yard at Nigg into an offshore wind power manufacturing centre. As a council we realise the huge scope there is for the site to play a key role in the UK renewable industry. This is a growing market and we want to ensure that any delay does not jeopardise the chance to take full advantage of this exciting opportunity. We believe up to 2000 jobs could be created and Nigg could be a Centre of excellence across the UK and Europe. What we need KBR to do is to show their commitment and readiness. If they are not in a position to do so they must make way for other opportunities for the site."