SNP promises to tackle the ‘unique challenges’ of Highland life Achi-News

The party promised to prioritize local communities and “build a prosperous future for everyone in the region” while promoting independence for Scotland.

The SNP said it would introduce “VAT-free streets” and targeted reductions to regenerate town centers in key areas including Thurso, Dingwall and Fort William as well as pushing for cuts to the tourism and hospitality sectors.

Fort William (Image: Newsquest)

He promised to set up the Scottish Rural Community Immigration Pilot (SRCIP) to allow rural and remote communities to attract migrants “according to their specific needs”.

The SNP said the Highlands have the highest rates of fuel poverty and higher energy costs “yet we produce around four times more energy than we need”.

The party said it would continue to advocate for the introduction of the Highland Energy Refund and fight to end price discrimination against residents in off-grid homes.

Other manifesto pledges include more benefits for communities from renewable energy and major energy infrastructure projects and efforts to bring the median annual wage into line with the rest of Scotland. Highlands workers can expect an average of £25,862 compared to £27,698 for the rest of the country.

The party also promised to work with others to see through the completion of the A9 dualling project and the A96 transport links and bring decisions closer to communities.

Kate Forbes said: “The SNP will always put the Highlands first. Despite the pressure on our public finances during 14 years of Tory austerity, we have achieved significant improvements to the health, education and economy of the Highlands.

“We have built several new hospitals and new schools, created the potential for thousands of new jobs as part of the green industrial revolution and argued the case for reversing depopulation.

“SNP MPs in Westminster have argued in favor of lower energy and living costs, protection for our NHS, and more capital to invest in infrastructure.

“This manifesto sets out how we will continue to deliver for the Highlands.”

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The SNP also promised to pursue the UK Government to restore capital budgets to enable the construction of the new Belford Hospital in Fort William.

(Image: Newsquest)

Drew Hendry, who is the SNP candidate for Inverness, Skye and West Rossshire, said: “This manifesto is an action plan that has been informed and shaped by the people, families and businesses of the Highlands.

“We have listened and we understand the fears, hopes and aspirations.

“There is a strong demand for investment in public services and protection for the NHS and that is why both are at the heart of this manifesto.

“Our great businesses also want to be in a great position to benefit from our green energy future – we want to help make that happen.”

Dr Lucy Beattie, SNP candidate for Caithness, Sutherland and Easter Ross, added: “Since the new year, I have been engaging with the community to understand their needs.

“People prioritize health, warm homes, jobs, and opportunities for the younger generation.

“To achieve this, proper funding for healthcare and infrastructure is essential.

“Thirty-six percent of households in the Highlands are facing fuel poverty, and businesses are struggling.

“Our Highland manifesto proposes specific measures to address these challenges, including implementing the Highland Energy rebate and encouraging OFGEM to review fixed charges.”

Graham Leadbitter standing in the new Moray West, Nairn and Strathspey constituency.

As a result of boundary changes the four Highland MPs will have to represent a population of 300,020 living across 35,537 square km of Europe’s most rural land – in comparison 11 MPs will represent 453 square km for Edinburgh and Glasgow.