How Helica Projects is building capability and visibility through Inverness and Cromarty Firth Green Freeport

Helica is acting as NEC Supervisor for the construction of Sumitomo Electric UK Power Cables Ltd’s new 57,500-square metre facility. In this role, Helica is responsible for quality control, including on-site quality monitoring, compliance oversight and early issue flagging to help keep the development on track. The new Sumitomo facility will supply critical elements to strengthen the UK electricity transmission grid.

"The size and scale of this project represents a once-in-a-generation opportunity for the Highlands, and we're excited to be part of that story," said Ewan MacGregor, Managing Director of Helica. "Getting in front of companies like Sumitomo doesn't happen by accident – you've got to put yourself out there, build relationships and be ready when the opportunity comes."

While their technical expertise was key to securing the contract, it was Helica’s unique site-based approach that truly set them apart. Instead of operating from a fixed office, the team works directly from the Port of Nigg – a model that increasingly appeals to clients who value hands-on project management.

"Being embedded on site gives us significantly more control and visibility day to day," Ewan explained. "It means we can respond immediately to challenges, maintain constant communication and stay connected to what's happening on the ground."

A recent visit to their mother facility in Hitachi, near Tokyo, Japan deepened the team’s understanding of the machinery being installed and the wider purpose of the build. "Seeing an existing & operating facility first-hand brought everything into perspective," Ewan said. "When you truly understand the bigger picture and the ultimate purpose of what you're building, it changes how you approach your work – and we’re now actively sharing the insights we learned at the site in Hitachi with everyone on site."

With the Green Freeport set to accelerate regional economic growth, Ewan emphasised the pressing need to develop a skilled workforce and put in place the housing, schools, healthcare and other services capable of meeting the rising demand across the sector and the region.

"There's a genuine shortage of skilled tradespeople across the Highlands – joiners, electricians, plumbers. For young people considering their options, the best thing you can do right now is learn a trade. From there, the pathway can lead to supervision, project management, consultancy or wherever your ambition and determination take you."

According to a recent Skills Development Scotland report, the Inverness and Highlands construction industry will need an additional 1,100 workers by 2027 to meet both replacement and growth demands.

Ewan’s own career journey – progressing from an HND in Building to a Construction Management degree and ultimately into specialised project delivery – reflects the value of building solid foundations through education with practical, hands-on experience.

"Most of our work comes from repeat clients who value our approach, but this project is different. It's infrastructure of international significance with genuinely long-term impact for the region. That makes our contribution all the more rewarding."

As the Green Freeport continues to unlock new possibilities for the Highlands, Helica shows how local firms can rise to the challenge and thrive.

Ewan’s advice to other businesses looking to capitalise on emerging opportunities is straightforward: 

"Stay visible. Build your network. Be ready to demonstrate your capability. The opportunities are definitely there, especially for those who are prepared to deliver at the highest level."