Highland Council has agreed to pursue a new Growth Deal with the Scottish and UK Governments, seeking to ensure that billions of pounds of planned investment deliver lasting benefits for communities across the Highlands.
The proposed agreement could help coordinate between £10 billion and £16 billion in public and private investment over the next 25 years, although the funding has not yet been secured through the proposed deal.
Councillors backed plans on Thursday 29 October to begin formal discussions with both governments, bringing together existing economic initiatives under a single strategic framework.
The ambition is to ensure that major investment in renewable energy, electricity transmission, ports, housing and transport creates opportunities that extend beyond individual developments.
Council Leader Raymond Bremner said significant investment was already being planned and delivered, creating the potential for transformational economic growth.
However, he stressed that cooperation between government, businesses and communities would be essential to securing lasting benefits.
“Sustainable growth can only be achieved through strong collaboration between the public and private sectors, ensuring investment translates into lasting local benefits through jobs, skills, business growth and stronger communities.”
The proposals come as the Highlands faces substantial demands for new housing, improved infrastructure and a workforce capable of supporting major industrial developments.
Among the council’s existing ambitions is the Highland Housing Challenge, which aims to deliver 25,000 additional homes by 2035.
The proposed Growth Deal would also build upon the £750 million Highland Investment Plan, which includes investment in schools and community facilities over the next five years.
Other initiatives include the Highland Wealth Fund, the Social Value Charter and the £2 million Workforce North Co-Investment Fund, designed to support recruitment and training.
The council says its Social Value Charter has already secured £6 billion in investment pledges since launching in 2025.
Joint Leader of the Highland Independent Group, Councillor Michael Green, emphasised the importance of ensuring economic investment reaches local communities.
“It’s important the benefits of economic investment are felt in our communities through housing, infrastructure, employment opportunities, and improved access to local services.”
He said a coordinated approach could bring existing projects together and help unlock additional investment.
The proposed framework would also consider business growth, climate resilience, digital connectivity, culture and opportunities for communities to retain more of the wealth generated locally.
However, the estimated £10 billion to £16 billion represents potential investment across the region rather than a confirmed government funding commitment.
Council officers will now develop an initial strategic proposition and identify priority projects before returning to elected members for further consideration.
The proposal follows the existing Inverness and Highland City-Region Deal, with the council hoping a new agreement can provide a longer term framework for economic development across the Highlands.
