Sutherland News
News
Historic Dunrobin Castle has been awarded £4.5 million in heritage funding for urgent restoration work following storm damage last winter. Meanwhile, emergency services responded to a major landslide on the A9 near Brora, with the road expected to remain partially closed for two weeks.
Business News
The newly opened Sutherland Spaceport has secured its first commercial satellite launch contract, creating 85 local jobs. Traditional industries also thrive as Clynelish Distillery announces a £12 million expansion to meet growing global demand for single malt whisky.
Economic News
Tourism revenue shows a 9% year-on-year increase, with the North Coast 500 route driving growth. However, rising fuel prices disproportionately impact remote communities, prompting calls for targeted government support from Highland Council.
Political News
Controversy surrounds plans for a new offshore wind farm near Dornoch Firth, with local fishermen and environmental groups demanding a public inquiry. The Scottish Government is expected to make a decision by autumn.
Election News
With Scottish Parliament elections approaching in May 2026, the SNP faces a strong challenge from Scottish Conservatives in Caithness, Sutherland and Ross. Key issues include rural broadband, transport infrastructure, and depopulation concerns.
Employment News
Unemployment remains low at 2.8%, though seasonal fluctuations continue to affect the hospitality sector. A new renewable energy training center in Golspie will offer 120 apprenticeships in wind and tidal power technologies.
Business News
Shares in Inverness-based companies with Sutherland operations rose modestly this week. Whisky producer Whyte & Mackay saw a 3% increase following reports of strong Asian market performance.
Forecast
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Mon (Jun 16): Sunny, 17°C
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Tue (Jun 17): Light rain, 15°C
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Wed (Jun 18): Cloudy, 14°C
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Thu (Jun 19): Showers, 13°C
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Fri (Jun 20): Sunny intervals, 16°C
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Sat (Jun 21): Warm, 18°C
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Sun (Jun 22): Sunny, 19°C
Entertainment News
The annual Sutherland Folk Festival returns with a star-studded lineup including Julie Fowlis and Skipinnish. Durness Playhouse announces a special screening of the new Scottish film "The Northern Lights" followed by Q&A with the director.
Upcoming Events in Sutherland
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June 28-22: Sutherland Agricultural Show (Dornoch)
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June 21: Golsp Gala Day (Golspie Village)
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June 25: Tain Through Time (History Festival)
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June 28: North Coast 500 Classic Car Rally (Starting at John O'Groats)
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July 2: Ceilidh Under the Stars (Lairg)
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July 5: Dornoch Summer Festival (Dornoch Cathedral)
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July 10: Sutherland Book Festival (Dunrobin Castle)
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July 15: Traditional Boat Race (Lochinver Harbour)
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July 20: Highland Games (Brora)
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Aug 3-5: Tongue Music Festival (Ben Loyal Hotel)
Transport Alert: Essential repairs to the Kylesku Bridge will cause overnight closures from June 20-25. Alternative routes will be signposted.
Nature Watch: Wildlife experts report an exceptional year for puffin sightings along the Sutherland coast, with boat tours from Durness operating at full capacity.
Stay informed with the latest news from Scotland's northern frontier!
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