Having previously committed to take forward a new care facility to replace the existing Melvich and Caladh Sona care homes operated by NHS Highland, the council has agreed that a new health and care hub, delivered by Wildland Limited, and in partnership between the council, NHS Highland and Wildland was the best option, considering an assessment of all factors, including the financial, risk and community impact.

The milestone decision will see a new hub, consisting of a new care facility and new GP surgery, with an estimated capital cost of £10.4 million being developed by Wildland and in turn leased to Highland Council (care facility) and NHS Highland (GP surgery).

NHS Highland will be the occupier, operator and responsible party for the management and delivery of all services provided from the new Hub.

Councillor Linda Munro, chair of the health, social care and wellbeing committee, said:  “I’m delighted we’ve reached this significant milestone and can now move forward to get this much needed new facility started. This new health and social care hub will provide a much needed focus for the community, offering new, modern and environmentally friendly health and social care facilities, the opportunity to best meet the needs of our community, be a more attractive facility for our staff to work in and attract new staff too, and finally provide a much needed economic boost to the area.”

Michelle Johnstone, North area manager for NHS Highland, said: “This is an exciting development for the local community and I am pleased to see it reach this stage. This development will ensure we have sustainable services going forward for our local community and for colleagues working within the area and it is very much welcomed.”

Tim Kirkwood, chief executive of Wildland Limited, added: “We are pleased to have been able to help The Highland Council in its intent to progress the delivery of a new North Coast Care Hub through partnership with NHS Highland.

“We have welcomed the opportunity and will continue to support both parties to create a care home and healthcare facility to serve the needs of the community. We wholly embrace the common aim for these vital services to be provided by NHS Highland in a transformed setting that everyone can enjoy and be proud of.”