The Inverness and Cromarty Firth Green Freeport has taken a major step forward with a newly signed memorandum of understanding involving the UK Government, Scottish Government, Highland Council, and the Freeport partnership. This agreement provides a formal framework for collaboration, unlocking £25 million in UK Government capital funding to accelerate the project’s development.
The Green Freeport aims to position the Highlands as a global centre for offshore wind and renewable energy, with projections suggesting more than £6.5 billion in inward investment over the next 25 years. The initiative is expected to create over 11,000 long-term jobs, fostering a skilled workforce tailored to the clean energy and maritime industries.
Extensive construction and infrastructure opportunities will emerge as the Freeport develops port facilities, logistics hubs, manufacturing capabilities, and training centres to support offshore wind deployment and other renewable energy projects. The development benefits from UK Government tax incentives designed to stimulate private sector investment and enhance supply chain engagement.
The announcement was highlighted at Aurora Energy Services’ new £1.2 million training facility in Inverness, which is projected to train over 2,000 workers annually for the renewables sector. This centre will play a crucial role in the wider supply chain, ensuring a steady supply of skilled personnel to support the Freeport’s construction and operational activities.
Scottish Secretary Douglas Alexander described the agreement as a pivotal moment for the Highlands economy and the UK’s clean energy future, emphasising the importance of collaboration between governments and local partners to underpin sustainable regional growth.
For the construction sector, the Green Freeport offers a pipeline of opportunities linked not only to infrastructure delivery but also to ongoing support facilities for renewable energy. Contractors, subcontractors, and suppliers in civil engineering, marine construction, manufacturing, and training provision will be integral to achieving the Freeport’s objectives. With development activity set to increase rapidly following this funding unlock, supply chain businesses are well-positioned to align early and participate in one of the UK’s most significant clean energy projects.
