A new steel skeleton is taking shape on the skyline of Inverness Campus.
Construction has now started on the new £11million enterprise and research centre within the park.
The building will be shared by economic specialists and researchers from two of the region’s biggest strategic organisations, Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE), and the University of the Highlands and Islands UHI.
They are due to occupy the building from late 2015.
The purpose-built facility will be used by the two agencies
Alex Paterson, chief executive of HIE, said: “Collaboration between business academia and economic development is at the heart of the Inverness Campus ethos.
“This innovative co-location project will strengthen the universities sector, broaden the region’s research base and provide a focus to attract new investment and jobs to all parts of the Highlands and Islands.”
UHI plans to used the building as a base for a number of new research teams, with the creation of 20 new jobs.
Planned features include a life sciences postgraduate education facility; a learning and teaching academy, and specialised training and accreditation for the oil and gas industry.
Professor Clive Mulholland, principal and vice-chancellor of the University of the Highlands and Islands said: “We are looking forward to the opportunities this joint facility brings and will undoubtedly stimulate in the future.
“Our university should have a transformational impact on the development and prospects of our region, its people and communities.
“To achieve that, we must be integrated into the fabric of centres of potential economic growth such as this fantastic new campus.”
Architects Sheppard Robson designed the building which is being built by Morrison Construction.
Funding contributions for the development have come from the European Regional Development Fund, University of the Highlands and Islands, HIE and the Highland Council.
In addition to HIE staff, a number of the organisation’s partners, including the Scottish Manufacturing Advisory Service, Interface and Scottish Development International, will also be based at the Centre.
It is expected that the centre will also include Scotland’s Rural College research and consultancy services activity; a facility for the promotion and development of science, technology and engineering skills to young people.
