Highland Council ‘vision for the future’ showcased in web video series detailing delivery plan up to 2027

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Highland Council’s ambitious three-year strategy aimed at transforming the region through innovative investments, community-driven solutions, and sustainable development is the focus of a new six-part video series.

“Our Future Highland”, the local authority’s delivery plan for the five-year period up to 2027, puts the focus on six priorities that will shape the future of Highland communities – maximising social, economic and partnership opportunities, and resources to improve the quality of life for people in the Highlands.

Putting People First: Person-Centred Solutions

At the heart of the council’s plan is a commitment to enabling people to live independently and well within their communities – a vision shared by its Community Planning partners.

Its ‘Putting People First’ portfolio has prioritised implementing a range of solutions to grow community capacity, by growing its future workforce with care-experienced young people, ensuring they can thrive in nurturing environments close to home.

Across the Highlands, people of all ages requiring care – from early childhood, through adulthood and into old age – will benefit from strengthened community-based care solutions, by being innovative and working closely with families.

This includes building a stronger support system for families providing kinship care to young people and expanding foster care capacity and the development of a kinship team.

Investments in digital solutions will further support independent living, providing greater options to sustain care at home.

Building a Future-Ready Workforce

To meet the twin challenges of sustaining our working age population, and seizing the amazing economic opportunities available here, Highland Council have created a comprehensive plan to build the future workforce that Highland requires.

This involves reaching into schools and building more effective partnerships with private and state sector employers, trainers, colleges and universities.

The local authority plans to build cross-sector career pathways, skills packages and partnerships, to develop the future workforce of the Highlands.

Employer skills boards are being introduced to drive workforce development, while enhanced digital learning will ensure accessibility across the region’s vast geography.

A major part of this strategy is supporting those furthest from the job market, by strengthening the ‘Work Life Highland’ initiative, creating a single gateway to jobs for those who need them and enhancing supported employment.

The introduction of an Employer Charter will recognise businesses that champion fair work and contribute to the local economy.

Transforming Public Assets and Infrastructure

Highland Council is taking a place-based approach to mapping its assets across an area that covers a third of Scotland.

A £2 billion Highland Investment Plan over the next 20 years has been set out to modernise public buildings, with decisions to be made on which ones it needs to sell or repurpose, which ones require commitment to keeping, and which ones need to be replaced with new builds.

The council recognises that its school estate needs to be modernised – but this is no mean feat with 196 schools in both urban and rural communities.

One of the most significant initiatives is the creation of “Points of Delivery”—the creation of a new generation of community facilities where multiple public services will be co-located.

These hubs will optimise service accessibility while reducing operational costs.

The council is also tackling the Highlands’ housing challenges, addressing the need for 24,000 new homes over the next decade by exploring opportunities for co-investment between the public and private sector.

A Smarter, More Efficient Council

Digital transformation is central to the council’s vision for a more streamlined and accessible public service.

The ‘My Council’ program will enhance customer service by integrating digital solutions, making it easier for residents to access information and track service requests.

In a bid to modernise its asset management, the council is also implementing ‘Terra Tracker’—a digital mapping system that consolidates centuries of land and property records.

This will support housing development, renewable energy projects, and income-generating opportunities.

Innovative Revenue Generation for Financial Sustainability

Recognizing the financial pressures facing local authorities, Highland Council is pioneering new ways to increase income.

The introduction of higher council tax rates for second homes and long-term empty properties is one such measure aimed at boosting revenue while encouraging properties back onto the housing market.

Tourism-based initiatives, such as the redevelopment of the Old Man of Storr and the transformation of Inverness Castle, have created new revenue streams while promoting sustainable tourism.

A fair-charging strategy has been developed to ensure the cost of public services is shared equitably.

Leading the Way on Net Zero and Energy Innovation

Climate Change remains one of the greatest challenges of our lifetime – one which Highland Council has made a core priority, with a focus on renewable energy, sustainable transport, and reducing carbon emissions.

Building on the success of the Hydro Ness scheme, Our Future Highland promises further investments will be made in solar, wind, and wave energy to power council assets and contribute to the national grid.

To meet its net zero targets, the council is also downsizing its vehicle fleet, investing in low-emission alternatives, and promoting active travel among staff.

Plans for an electric ferry at the Corran Narrows highlight the local authority’s commitment to sustainable transport solutions.

A Vision for the Future

Highland Council’s 2024-2027 Delivery Plan represents a bold and forward-thinking approach to governance, balancing economic growth with social and environmental responsibility.

By embracing digital transformation, investing in infrastructure, and fostering strong community partnerships, the council is paving the way for a resilient and prosperous Highland.

As these initiatives take shape over the next two years, people in the Highlands can expect meaningful improvements that will enhance everyday life while ensuring the region remains a great place to live, work, and visit.

With a clear roadmap for progress, Highland Council is demonstrating its commitment to building a brighter future for all.

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