BBC presenter and ex-Tory MP and cabinet member Michael Portillo visits West Fraser wood plant near Dalcross, Inverness as part of his Great Coastal Railway Journeys series
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BBC broadcaster and former politician Michael Portillo visited an Inverness wood plant during an episode of a popular television series screened last week.
The veteran former Conservative government cabinet minister was shown around the West Fraser wood panel manufacturers, formerly known as Norbord, as part of the BBC Two Great Coastal Railway Journeys series.
At the Dalcross-based facility, the firm’s Steve Mctaggart, with 35 years’ experience in the business, took time to explain how 16 million boards were created at the plant each year.
The manufacturer showcased how planted woodland was used to create the wood panels, which are then used in construction for walls, floors and ceilings.
With the mill located next to the Inverness to Aberdeen railway line, the show also highlighted West Fraser’s plans to build sidings to allow freight train deliveries to the site.
The firm’s general manager Stuart Hendry said: “We were delighted to invite the popular broadcaster for a guided tour of our Inverness plant and showcase how we continue to provide vital and sustainable wood panelling to key suppliers and operators across Europe.
“It was fantastic to see the hard work of our Inverness manufacturing team highlighted and we’re thrilled that Mr Portillo found our industry both fascinating and hugely important for Scottish industry.”
