GRANT CAMPBELL: Collaboration will be key to us achieving our social and economic ambitions
It has been a glorious few weeks of weather which allows the beauty of our natural environment to display itself in all its glory to locals and tourists alike.
As we enjoy the benefits of our region for work, rest and play, we also need to consider just how important the Highlands and Islands has become to the national interest for net zero because of those natural assets.
Stopping for a moment to consider how this is going to impact our future is important, but for us to capitalise on the unprecedented opportunity, we cannot delay action and investment or we might miss the chance for our region to be a world leading exemplar of social, economic and environmental harmony.
For over 90 years, SCDI has had collaboration at the heart of our purpose which is to deliver fair and sustainable social and economic growth for all of Scotland.
Uniquely, we unite public, private and third sector organisations together to develop thinking and meaningful action on policy and delivery which can allow people and places to prosper.
With our hills and glens, lochs and coastlines needed more than ever to play their role in the UK clean energy revolution, we need to be sure that the solutions to infrastructure development, new job opportunities and wider economic growth all deliver community benefit for now and generations to come.
Collaboration will be key to us achieving our social and economic ambitions whilst maintaining the natural beauty that brings so many visitors to the area and supports our tourism and hospitality sectors.
SCDI were delighted to welcome Dr Fiona Simpson, chief planner to the Scottish Government to Inverness to meet with members last week and discuss the role of planning in enabling economic growth.
Our Highlands and Islands Business Excellence Awards have now opened for nominations, and we look forward to hearing about the great work of businesses and organisations of all sizes across the region.
Click here to find out more and nominate.
Grant Campbell is SCDI’s regional manager for the Highlands and Islands
