Highland Council announces £2.1 billion infrastructure investment plan

Highland Council has launched an ambitious 20-year transformational investment programme valued at approximately £2.1 billion. The plan aims to upgrade essential infrastructure, including schools, roads, transport, community facilities, and offices, to address long-standing issues with deteriorating public assets.

However, the plan faces potential challenges due to shifting economic conditions. Rising UK government bond yields, driven by inflation and energy price concerns, have increased the general cost of borrowing. While existing fixed-rate debt is not immediately affected, the council may face higher costs for new borrowing and future refinancing required to sustain the two-decade project.

In parallel, the council is reporting progress in its educational strategies. Data from the Education and Learning Improvement Plan (ELIP) and the Raising Attainment and Achievement Strategy (RAAS) show improvements in student outcomes. Notably, S6 attainment rose by 7.1%, and there have been measurable gains in English and Maths for S4 pupils, including encouraging progress among students from more deprived areas.