Barra firm secures £105k from HIE and creates new jobs
A modular housing construction business on the Isle of Barra, which has been awarded up to £105,000 from Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) to help build a new factory, has already created six new jobs on the island.
Modular West Ltd builds bespoke housing and commercial modules and was established last year by Barra businessman, Roddy MacInnes. The business started trading in January this year and is expected to create more new full-time equivalent jobs at the factory, which was recently built on land at the Vatersay Causeway quarry site. The move to a 1000m2 factory has enabled full units to be built indoors prior to being transported to sites across the Outer Hebrides and the west coast mainland.
The modular buildings are constructed to high insulation and air tightness standards and will be low energy in operation and deliver carbon savings over the lifetime of their use when compared to standard construction. The building method can be done without weather delays off-site, under a roof before being assembled on-site.
This project will create more jobs that will be attractive to school leavers and other young people. Roddy plans to make use of the apprenticeship scheme to attract and train a workforce.
His other building firm, Coastal Homes, which he’s been running as a sole trader for 21 years, will continue to operate and retain all five staff in Barra.
Joanna Peteranna, area manager at HIE’s Outer Hebrides area team, said: ‘It’s important for the local economy that firms can grow while remaining on the island. This ambitious project will help retain our young people and attract skilled people to move here. Housebuilding is a particular priority throughout the Outer Hebrides. The company plans to provide more affordable house prices for young people and families across the islands.’
Roddy said: ‘I would like to say a big thank you to HIE for the belief they showed early on. We are easily a few years ahead of where we would be without the help provided by HIE. My employees and I see an exciting future ahead.’