Business / Ness Engineering secures £170k funding for new workshop
A SOUTH Mainland company is nearing completion of a new workshop after receiving over £170,000 in funding from Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE).
Ness Engineering is building a new facility on its existing Sumburgh site, in a move which HIE said would help the business to create one new role as well as two apprentice positions.
It comes as Ness Engineering seeks to respond to growing demand for its services.
The company has secured up to £172,234 of funding from HIE to support the expansion and the creation of new jobs.
Currently Ness Engineering employs 46 people, including apprentices, and delivers a range of services including electrical, mechanical and general engineering.
It also provides site services such as welfare units, temporary lighting and on-site power generation.
The new building will give the company additional workshop, storage and yard space to support its growing plant, equipment and welfare unit fleet, while freeing up existing buildings for improved office accommodation.
One new role and two additional apprentice positions would be created as a direct result of the expansion, HIE said.
Ness Engineering also received £18,580 from HIE to invest in a new technology improving productivity and efficiency.
The software will integrate seamlessly with the company’s existing accountancy system, HIE added.
HIE’s area manager for Shetland and Orkney Katrina Wiseman said Ness Engineering plays “an important role in the local economy, providing skilled jobs and essential services across Shetland”.
“This investment will increase the firm’s capacity, create employment opportunities and improve productivity, helping to strengthen and future-proof the business,” she added.
Ness Engineering managing director Alistair Leslie said the company was “very grateful” for the financial support from HIE, adding it has “helped us invest in the future”.
“The new workshop and yard facilities will give us the additional space and capacity we need to support growing demand for our services, while also improving efficiency across the business,” he said.
“Importantly, this investment allows us to create new employment opportunities locally, including another two apprenticeship roles, which is something we’re particularly proud of.
“The additional support towards new software systems has helped streamline our administrative processes and improve productivity, allowing staff to focus more time on higher-value tasks and supporting customers.”
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