This item was published during the term of a previous administration that ended in April 2007
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SNH in Inverness
06/09/2005
The topping out ceremony of the new headquarters building for Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH) in Inverness was carried out today.
Deputy Environment Minister Rhona Brankin visited the site at Westercraigs where construction of the main structure of the new building is now complete in preparation for the agency's relocation from Edinburgh.
Ms Brankin said:
"The topping out of any building is an important milestone and it is of major significance in the overall relocation project.
"Scottish Ministers are determined that all of Scotland should benefit from the economic opportunities that devolution brings and I am pleased that recruitment has now got underway.
"I am delighted at the progress that SNH is making, not only in constructing a flagship building fit for our leading natural heritage body, but also in addressing staff moves and recruitment whilst ensuring the smooth operation of the organisation as a whole.
John Markland, Chairman of SNH, added:
"The relocation of SNH to Inverness is a huge undertaking and we are grateful for the support we have, particularly from the Scottish Executive, The Highland Council and the Highlands and Islands Enterprise network, in helping it to take place as smoothly as possible.
"From the start, it was intended that the new SNH head office should exemplify a sustainable development approach. This challenge was embraced by Robertsons in their design and construction of what will be an outstanding sustainable building.
"This new building and the landscape within which it sits will serve the needs of Scottish Natural Heritage and the environment very well indeed and I am sure it will be a joy to work in."
SNH is the Executive's statutory advisor in respect to the conservation, enhancement, enjoyment, understanding and sustainable use of the natural heritage.
SNH will have the option of leasing the property at a total annual cost of £1.062 million, or to buy it outright for £15.447 million. They cost will be partially offset by the sale of three buildings owned by SNH (at Hope Terrace in Edinburgh and at Culduthel Road and Ardconnel Terrace in Inverness) and by a reduction in the size of the office space SNH leases at Anderson Place in Edinburgh.
The relocation of SNH from Edinburgh to Inverness was announced in 2003.