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Today :: Business
Oil at $100: Two Wars Are Putting the Global Energy System Under Pressure

Brent crude is once again approaching the psychologically important $100-a-barrel threshold. But this time the move is being driven by something considerably more serious than a normal imbalance between supply and demand.

Today :: Business
Red Alert for the NHS? A Government Review Raises Questions for England and Scotland

There is a revealing document sitting quietly in the public domain which raises much bigger questions about the future of the NHS than its relatively technical title might suggest. A Government Gateway Review of NHS England's Frontline Productivity programme has given the programme a Red Delivery Confidence Assessment.

Today :: Business
From Abeyance to 18 Candidates: What Has Happened to Latheron, Lybster & Clyth Community Council?” 18 Candidates For 6 Seats

Following the close of nominations on Monday 7 September noon, the statements of persons nominated for each community council have been published on the council’s website. Now able to confirm that out of 20 Community Councils seeking membership, 15 have formed, 4 have not formed and 1 may require an election as they exceed the number of available vacancies.

Today :: Business
Why the government’s debt is growing – current public spending pressures explained

Pressure to make cuts in public spending has intensified in recent weeks, with increased calls on Prime Minister Andy Burnham to find savings urgently. The need to reduce expenditure has become more pressing as the cost of loans used to pay for services has shot up.

Today :: Business
Councillors set to challenge huge Highland powerline plan

Highland councillors are set to reaffirm their opposition to a massive new 400kV powerline stretching across the region when they meet today. The North and South Planning Committees are joining forces to consider the proposed Spittal–Loch Buidhe–Beauly transmission project, one of the biggest electricity infrastructure schemes ever proposed in the Highlands.

Today :: Business
 
Why Are Scottish Pupils Falling Behind England? The PISA Results Demand a Rethink

There are few subjects more important to parents than the education their children receive. It determines not only what they know when they leave school, but increasingly their opportunities throughout adult life.

Today :: Business
Houthi Attacks On Saudi Energy Infrastrucure Raises Fears Of Even Higher Oil Prices

There has been a significant escalation in attacks on Saudi energy infrastructure, but there is an important distinction. The latest attacks on Saudi oil facilities have been carried out by the Iran-aligned Houthi movement in Yemen, rather than by Iran's regular armed forces directly.

Today :: Business
The Yen Is Rising. Why Should Britain Care?

A change in Japanese interest rates could have consequences for Britain's borrowing costs, mortgages and public finances At first sight, the Japanese yen seems to have very little to do with the cost of borrowing money in Britain. The yen is Japan's currency, the Bank of Japan sets Japanese interest rates and the Bank of England sets British interest rates.

Today :: Business
New Immigration Rules: What Do They Mean for Employers?

The Government is changing the rules for migrant workers who are victims of exploitation, while also opening new opportunities through Erasmus+. Changes to the UK's immigration rules announced by the Government on 3 September could have consequences for employers who rely on overseas workers, although the changes are more targeted than some headlines might suggest.

Yesterday :: Business
Highlands’ first Cultural Assembly to shape future arts and culture strategy

The Highlands’ first Cultural Assembly will take place in Inverness this September, with Fiona Dalgetty of Fèis Rois confirmed as its first Convener. The Assembly aims to bring together artists, creative practitioners, arts organisations and cultural bodies from across the region to help shape the future of arts and culture in the Highlands while creating a stronger, collective voice for the sector.

Yesterday :: Business
From Leyland to Jaguar: How Britain Lost Its Manufacturing Muscle and Is It Happening Again?

Britain's motor industry is facing a moment of truth. The announcement by Jaguar Land Rover that it plans to cut around 4,000 jobs over the next two years is not simply another corporate restructuring.

Yesterday :: Business
Oil Nears $100 Creating A Fresh Threat to Britain’s Economy

Brent crude has surged to almost $100 a barrel, with OilPrice.com showing prices around $99 on Tuesday, as the continuing conflict in the Middle East threatens global oil supplies. The immediate concern for Britain is not whether oil briefly crosses the symbolic $100 threshold.

Yesterday :: Business
Retail's Warning to Westminster - Britain's High Streets Cannot Survive on Good Intentions

Britain's retailers have delivered a message to Government which deserves rather more attention than it might initially receive. The British Retail Consortium's new “Buy into Retail” manifesto contains ten demands aimed at creating more jobs, encouraging investment, reducing costs and helping Britain's high streets and town centres.

Yesterday :: Business
Why Are We Always Giving Business Money Away? It Is Time for Taxpayers to Become Investors

Britain has a curious habit when it comes to helping businesses. When a company needs support, the first instinct of government is often to offer a grant.

Yesterday :: Business
The £12,570 Trap and Why Britain Needs a New Tax Allowance for Pensioners

There is something increasingly peculiar about Britain's income tax system. A pensioner receiving the full new State Pension is now paid almost exactly the same amount each year as the Government allows an individual to earn before income tax becomes payable.

Yesterday :: Business
Why Is the Government Telling Us to Keep Food in the Cupboard?

Angela Eagle's warning about food supplies may sound alarming, but perhaps the bigger question is why it has taken a potential weather crisis to make us think about resilience. When a government minister tells people to keep extra food and water in the house, it is bound to attract attention.

Yesterday :: Business
Public sector investment supports floating offshore wind foundations development for Highlands

Plans to produce floating offshore wind foundations at Port of Ardersier have taken a step forward with the approval of more than £778,000 in Scottish Government funding. Approval was given by Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) after close collaboration with Scottish Enterprise’s international arm, Scottish Development International (SDI), to secure the project for Scotland.

Yesterday :: Business
 
New space strategy will bolster UK defences against threats from space

New UK space strategy to bring government's investment and activity under one plan to drive growth, strengthen security and back everyday technologies. New national space strategy brings together UK’s plans for growth, defence, and national security to help reindustrialise the UK.

Yesterday :: Business
Scotland's £1bn Fiscal Squeeze - How Big Is the Hole in the 2027-28 Budget?

The Scottish Government is heading towards a difficult 2027-28 Budget. The problem is not a single £1 billion deficit, but a combination of falling real-terms funding, a £720 million tax reconciliation, difficult savings targets and rising spending pressures.

Yesterday :: Business
£2 Diesel in Scotland? The Warning Signs Are Already Here

Diesel prices are moving sharply higher — and Scotland could be particularly exposed. The latest figures put Scotland's average diesel price at about 184p a litre.

Yesterday :: Business
Where Will the Cuts Fall? Scotland’s Public Services Face Another Squeeze

The Scottish Government is facing a difficult financial year. But the real question for councils, NHS boards and other public bodies is simple who will absorb the pressure? The latest Scottish Fiscal Commission report contains an important warning for Scotland's public services.

Yesterday :: Business
What Does The Eastgate Shopping Centre Sale Tell Us About The Future of Town Centres?

The decision to put Inverness's Eastgate Shopping Centre on the market for a guide price of £18.5 million is a remarkable development, particularly when set against the £116 million paid for the centre in 2015. On the face of it, the figures suggest a spectacular collapse in the value of a major piece of town-centre property.

Yesterday :: Business
America and Canada Enter a New Phase of the Tariff War: Who Will Pay the Price?

The trade dispute between the United States and Canada has entered a new and potentially more dangerous phase. On Tuesday, 8 September 2026, Canada put new retaliatory tariffs into effect on roughly C$27.6 billion, or about US$20 billion, of American goods.

Yesterday :: Business
No news is bad news: the slow death of the British newsagent continues

While the demise of our local pubs is capturing the headlines, another great British institution is in equal danger of vanishing from our towns and cities. From WHSmith's disappearance and its successor TG Jones's shaky finances, to years of turmoil at Clintons and Paperchase, Parcelhero's warnings about the decline of newsagents and stationers are being borne out chain by chain.

Yesterday :: Business
Britain Chooses Negotiation as Canada Fires Back in Trump Tariff War

Britain has so far resisted following Canada down the path of a full-scale tariff confrontation with the United States, choosing negotiation and compromise instead as Donald Trump's administration continues to reshape America's trading relationships. The contrast has become particularly striking this week.

7/9/2026 :: Business
 
For Sale: Plot 25, Christie's Circle, , Keiss

We are excited to present this approximate 0.15 -acre plot located within a tranquil location in Keiss, Wick..

4/9/2026 :: Business
 
For Sale: 2 North Murchison Street, Wick

This two-bedroom semi-detached property is a doer-upper at a fantastic price. Uncared for by a long-term tenant, it is again in need of decoration, new floor coverings and would also benefit from having the small kitchen replaced.

3/9/2026 :: Business
 
For Sale: 53 Argyle Square, Wick, Wick

This large family home is a five-bedroom B-Listed terraced property with garden to rear, located in the sought-after residential area of the tree-lined Argyle Square. Accommodation comprises two lounges, kitchen/diner, utility area and modern shower room on ground floor.

3/9/2026 :: Business
 
Vacancy: Plant Mechanic

A&D Sutherland Ltd have a vacancy for a qualified second Plant Mechanic. This is based at our main quarry site in Spittal.

2/9/2026 :: Community
 
Caithness Citizens Advice - Home Visits Now Available!

See poster for details..

1/9/2026 :: Business
Vacancy: Front of House

We are seeking enthusiastic and dedicated Front of House Staff to join our team. This role is crucial in ensuring that our customers receive exceptional service and a memorable experience.

1/9/2026 :: Business
Vacancy: Cleaner

CLEANER WANTED – LATHERON Cleaner wanted to service Airbnb. 2 bedrooms, lounge, kitchen/dining area and bathroom.

31/8/2026 :: Business
 
Vacancy: Domestic Assistant

Here at Riverside house care home we are looking to employ a domestic assistant to join our team working four shifts per week 8am-2pm to ensure all areas are maintained to the highest standards of cleanliness, in this role you will perform cleaning tasks including dusting, hoovering, mopping and sanitizing surfaces. Previous experience is an advantage but not essential as full training will be given.

31/8/2026 :: Business
Vacancy: Carer

An exciting opportunity to join a lovely team help support a young man in his own home in Wick. If you are someone who likes to make a difference in someone's life and is caring compassionate and reliable this could be for you.

28/8/2026 :: Business
 
Vacancy: Optical Assistant

Specsavers in Wick are looking for an enthusiastic person to join our store due to continued growth. This is an exciting opportunity to join a small, hard-working team.

27/8/2026 :: Community
Become a volunteer Children’s Panel Member

Volunteer with Children's Hearings Scotland (CHS) and make a lasting difference in your community. Children's Hearings Scotland (CHS) is currently recruiting volunteer Panel Members across Scotland, including the Western Isles.

26/8/2026 :: Community
Views sought on phone restrictions in schools

Pupils, parents and teachers are among those being encouraged to share their views about restricting phones in schools with the launch of a public consultation today. The Scottish Government’s consultation will inform the development of legislation to restrict phone use in schools, given concerns about the harmful effect on pupils’ education and wellbeing.

25/8/2026 :: Sutherland
HIE acquires assets of Sutherland Spaceport Ltd ​

Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) has acquired the assets of Sutherland Spaceport Ltd (SSL) from the joint liquidators, Chad Griffin and Graham Smith of FRP Advisory. SSL was established in 2020 by Moray-based space launch company Orbital Express Ltd (Orbex), which entered administration in February this year.

24/8/2026 :: Sutherland
Public invited to Justice Service open days in Inverness and Golspie

The Highland Council’s Justice Service teams will be hosting open days in Inverness and Golspie this September. The public are invited to open day sessions on Wednesday 9 September at Inverness Justice Centre and Thursday 10 September at Golspie Justice Services.

24/8/2026 :: Community
Why Are We Charging VAT on Something That Can Help Prevent Skin Cancer?

There is something rather odd about the way we treat sunscreen in Britain. We know that exposure to ultraviolet radiation can cause skin cancer.

24/8/2026 :: Community
New research reveals growing gap between parental confidence and children’s digital reality

Over a third of children talk or play online with people they have never met. 91% of parents use monitoring tools — but 41% of children have tried to get around them.

22/8/2026 :: Sutherland
Britain Is Embracing AI — But Are We Ready for What Comes Next?-

Britain is adopting artificial intelligence at remarkable speed. But there is an intriguing problem developing beneath the headline figures.

20/8/2026 :: Business
Vacancy: Part time bar staff

We are looking for part-time / relief bar staff to join our team. * Casual, part time work as and when needed * Must be able to work evenings and weekends * Must be over 18 * Full bar training can be provided If you would like to join our team, and for more info on this post, please contact our Head Steward Donna by messaging our Facebook page or pop in to the Seaforth Club and see her.

19/8/2026 :: Coming Events
 
Mon, 14 Sep 2:00pm - Dunnet Sand Sculpture Creations

No booking required. Get ready to create..

19/8/2026 :: Business
 
Vacancy: Chef De Parte

Chef de Partie – Full Time We’re looking for a passionate and reliable Chef de Partie to join our kitchen team. You’ll work alongside our Head Chef and wider kitchen team to deliver high-quality food across breakfast, lunch and dinner service.

19/8/2026 :: Business
 
Vacancy: Waiting and bar staff, full time and part time

Waiting Staff – Full & Part Time We’re looking for friendly, enthusiastic and reliable Waiting Staff to join our team. We have full-time and part-time positions available, with shifts covering breakfast, lunch and dinner.

18/8/2026 :: Business
 
For Sale: Lealands Cottage, Bilbster

A lovely two-bedroom cottage with two sun rooms, located on the roadside in Bilbster with enclosed mature garden grounds and views across the open countryside. Accommodation comprises vestibule, hallway, lounge, kitchen/diner, two double bedrooms, newly fitted modern shower room and two sun rooms, one to the rear and another to the side.

14/8/2026 :: Business
 
For Sale: Queens Hotel - NEWLY REDUCED , Wick

Set in a prominent location on the popular NC500 route is this well established 8-bedroom hotel (all ensuite), with public bar, lounge bar, dining room, owners’ accommodation, covered beer garden, detached garage and large commercial tarmacadam carpark. Originally a church manse, dating back to the 19th century, this impressive and substantial property boasts many original features throughout including a beautiful feature staircase, ornate cornicing, high skirtings and ceilings, and decorative internal archways.

14/8/2026 :: Business
Vacancy: Domestic Assistant

Here at Riverside house care home we are looking to employ a dedicated and reliable domestic assistant to join our team. Hours to be worked are 8am-2pm covering four days including some weekends.

14/8/2026 :: Business
 
Vacancy: Care Assistant

Here at Riverside house care home in Wick we are looking to employ full or part time care assistants to join our team. SVQ level 2 in care would be an advantage but not essential full training will be provided.

14/8/2026 :: Business
 
Vacancy: Lifting Engineer / Appointed Person

Hugh Simpson (Contractors) Ltd. is the largest crane hire and heavy lifting services company based in Caithness.

13/8/2026 :: Business
Vacancy: Labourer

A&D Sutherland Ltd have vacancies for general labourers. The positions are based on the main Quarry site in Spittal.

12/8/2026 :: Community
 
The Shifting Sands of Dunnet Bay

Patti Bremner, the Countryside Ranger for East Caithness explains why dune systems need our protection and why recreational fires pose a real risk to these habitats. Working in an office alongside the Dunnet Bay sand dunes I have come to appreciate and respect them more and more each working day.