Inverness-based Norbord (www.norbord.co.uk) invited First Minster Nicola Sturgeon to officially open a new manufacturing line at its modernised wood panel manufacturing facility last month.

The Canadian-owned facility in Dalcross has almost doubled in size thanks to a £95 million investment, which included £12 million from Highlands and Islands Enterprise.

The company said the expansion of the plant was in response to rising demand in the UK and European markets for oriented strand board (OSB) — known as Sterling board — which it makes in Inverness.

The First Minister met members of staff who were instrumental in the project to modernise the plant.

She said: “Norbord’s £95 million expansion of its Dalcross plant is one of the largest single inward investments made into Scotland. It will significantly increase capacity and demonstrates the vibrancy of the Scottish forestry sector.”

Alan McMeekin, senior vice-president of Norbord Europe, said: “The launch event was the culmination of several years of work to dramatically increase the capacity of the plant, and it was a pleasure to welcome the First Minister to witness first-hand the positive impact the project is having on the community.

“The new line will help to ensure that we continue to be a leader in OSB production.”