The Underwater Centre, Fort William

The Highland Council is concerned for Lochaber and the wider Highlands as it understands that one of the region’s specialist companies The Underwater Centre in Fort William has ceased trading.

Cllr Andrew Baxter, Highland Council’s Lochaber Committee Chair said: “I am very disappointed to hear about the situation at the Underwater Centre. This is a world-class facility which is unique in the UK.

“Our immediate concerns are for the 50 staff employed at the centre which is one of Fort William’s largest employers, and for the welfare of the students, many of whom are from overseas. The council will be seeking meetings on site to see how we might assist.”