A proposal to transform part of Inverness’s common good land into a green hydrogen hub is now open to public consultation, giving locals until 15 July 2025 to have their say.
The Highland Council has invited views on whether to lease and change the use of land at the former landfill site at East Longman.
Though once used for waste disposal, part of the site has since had its development restrictions lifted, opening the door to new possibilities.
The land, held by the Council under a Royal Charter dating back to 1591, is considered common good property, which means its use must serve the best interests of the people of Inverness.
Storegga Hydrogen (Cromarty) Limited has come forward with an ambitious proposal to lease the site and develop a green hydrogen production facility.
Powered by renewable energy, the plant would generate around 6,400 tonnes of hydrogen each year through electrolysis.
The facility is projected to slash carbon emissions by up to 45,000 tonnes of CO2 equivalent annually.
That’s roughly the same as taking 32,000 petrol or diesel cars off Scottish roads.
The hydrogen produced would be used to help decarbonise a major industrial site in the Longman Industrial Estate and could also supply other users across the region.
Before any lease can go ahead, the Council must consider the views of the local community.
If public support is strong and the Council wishes to proceed, they will need to seek final approval from the Sheriff Court.
All feedback received during the consultation will be taken into account, and the full record of responses and the eventual decision will be made publicly available on the Council’s website.
This consultation focuses only on the proposed change of use for common good land.
If the development progresses beyond this stage, it will still be subject to planning permission and any other relevant statutory approvals.
The Council is urging residents to read the consultation materials and share their views, whether in support or concern.
Comments can be submitted by email to common.good@highland.gov.uk or by post to the Common Good Fund Officer, The Highland Council HQ, Glenurquhart Road, Inverness, IV3 5NX.
The deadline for responses is 15 July 2025.
