Brace yourself for a significant leap in sustainable construction education as UHI Inverness secures a game-changing facility. The university has finalized the lease of a former equipment hire unit at Harbour Road, Inverness, setting the stage for a state-of-the-art Sustainable Construction Centre. This strategic move is part of UHI Inverness’s ambitious expansion plans, aimed at meeting the burgeoning demand for skilled professionals in the construction sector.
The new centre, spanning an impressive 12,000 square feet, will be a beacon of sustainability, fitted with solar panels, LED lighting, and heat pump technology. It will replace the existing smaller training facility at Burnett Road, providing a modern campus complete with classrooms, workshops, and a social area. The initial development is bolstered by a substantial £352,000 grant from SSEN Transmission’s Regional Community Benefit Fund, underscoring the region’s commitment to green initiatives.
Carrie Higgins, the Tertiary Education Leader at UHI Inverness, emphasizes the centre’s critical role in driving sustainable construction. “The construction industry is playing a pivotal role towards achieving net-zero targets and enhancing energy efficiency,” she notes. “There is an increased need for skilled professionals in our area to drive sustainable construction, which this new centre aims to address by providing a hub for training, innovation, and research opportunities.” Higgins highlights that the focus on sustainability will prepare apprentices, students, and existing workforce to become proficient in green construction techniques.
Professor Chris O’Neil, principal and chief executive at UHI Inverness, echoes this sentiment, stating, “The Sustainable Construction Centre represents an investment in the future growth of UHI Inverness, demonstrating our focus on supporting a greener, more resilient built environment.” He adds, “Our commitment to supporting the Government’s net-zero targets is not just a goal, but a guiding principle that is shaping a curriculum with an emphasis on training a new generation of professionals skilled in sustainable practices.”
The centre will offer structured courses covering building design, energy-efficient materials, retrofit, and insulation, providing recognized qualifications and certifications. This educational initiative aligns with regional economic opportunities, such as the Inverness and Cromarty Firth Green Freeport, ensuring that the local workforce is well-equipped to meet industry demands.
SSEN Transmission’s director of customers and stakeholders, Christianna Logan, praises the project, saying, “We’re delighted to be awarding our first £2m of funding to some incredible projects, including the important work being done by UHI Inverness to address skills shortages in sustainable construction.” She reiterates SSEN Transmission’s commitment to generating sustainable value by investing in projects that enrich lives and strengthen communities.
With a project management team already in place, refurbishment plans are underway to ensure the building is ready to welcome students by spring. This development not only signifies a leap forward for UHI Inverness but also sets a precedent for how educational institutions can drive sustainability in the construction sector. By fostering collaboration between industry stakeholders, contractors, and developers, the centre will serve as a hub for research and development of sustainable technologies, paving the way for a greener future in construction.
