LOCAL MP Drew Hendry recently visited Kier Construction’s Inverness base to hear about the various projects the firm is delivering and discuss the construction sector’s role in boosting the economy.
The SNP MP for Inverness, Nairn, Badenoch and Strathspey also learned about Kier’s outreach work with school pupils that introduces them to the industry at an early age, and the various initiatives the company has put in place to attract new talent and tackle skills shortages in the sector.
Kier’s Inverness office currently employs eight full time staff. recent contract wins include the expansion and modernisation of Inverness Airport’s passenger lounges, as well as a £7 million deal to upgrade council house heating across the Highlands through the Scape National Minor Works Framework.
The firm is also delivering a £14 million community centre and primary school campus at Caol, Fort William for The Highland Council and has completed various projects for Highlands and Islands Enterprise, including a custom-built business facility at Sandbank Business Park in Dunoon and upgrading the visitor facilities at the Ptarmigan, Cairngorm Mountain Top Station.
Drew Hendry said, “Kier’s work on projects like Inverness Airport, one of our most vital social and economic assets, is a real boost for the area. To ensure the sector continues to thrive it is vital that every effort is made to address the skills shortage facing Scotland’s construction industry. I was, therefore, encouraged to hear Kier’s vision and plans to recruit local talent and secure a strong employment base for the future.”
Sean O’Callaghan, Kier Construction Scotland’s area operations director added, “Since opening last year, our operations in Inverness and across the Highlands have gone from strength to strength. It was great to welcome Mr Hendry and give him an overview of our work and our plans for the continued growth of this dynamic industry.”
