Lost opportunities in Highlands frustrate business owners
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As we approach the end of 2023 and reflect with Prosper members, our region finds itself in a position of national significance for energy security and net zero.
When you combine those with existing industries in manufacturing, food and drink, tourism and hospitality, and with a growing life science, space sector and the Green Freeport status being awarded to Inverness and Cromarty Firth, we have reasons to be confident that our region can be world class as a destination and place to do business.
There is no doubt that the year has brought significant challenges and we continue to see shortages of people and skills having an impact on the success of our organisations. It is the lost opportunity which frustrates business owners and unfortunately many are having to restrict outputs to their markets due to lower staff numbers which in turn, curtails production or delivery of services.
De-population for some parts of the Highlands is not new and over the years we have seen numbers go up and down in alignment with the coming and going of major industries or projects. This time it feels different. The wealth of opportunities to grow thriving communities in all corners of the region and the desire of industry to play a role in creating long lasting legacies which put people and place at the heart of their investment are here and ready for the taking with the right government support.
A combination of UK and Scottish government challenges have meant difficult decisions being made in the recent Scottish budget. Prosper’s private, public and third sector members will have a range of reactions. However, they share a common view that clarity over economic policies and implementation in areas, such as lifelong learning, infrastructure and innovation, is urgently required from ministers to generate a stronger future economic position.
We are however disappointed the reduction in capital investment, reduced support for economic development and the missed economic opportunity this represents.
Heading into 2024, collaboration will drive change and see Scotland and our people Prosper.
Grant Campbell is Prosper’s regional manager for the Highlands and Islands.
