Sir Robert Smith, MP and Cllr Iris Walker

New signs were unveiled last week proclaiming Westhill’s status as a global centre of subsea excellence. Sir Robert Smith, MP, unveiled the signs along with Aberdeenshire Provost Cllr Jill Webster and Neil Gordon, Chief Executive of Subsea UK.

Confirming the Aberdeenshire town’s subsea status, Mr Gordon said: “Aberdeen City and Shire is home to almost 40% of the UK’s subsea industry which generates £6billion per annum and supports 50,000 jobs.

“There are around 290 subsea companies in Aberdeen City and Shire, and the companies located in Westhill, account for some 6,000 employees.”

Subsea UK also announced its intention of relocating its headquarters to Westhill. The body, which represents the industry around the UK with over 250 members, is investing in new headquarters at Arnhall Business Park, Westhill, where the team expect to be in their new offices in June this year.

Great news for Westhill and I hope that Subsea UK along with other local companies will get involved in the community aspect of the town and be interested to hear what local facilities and groups have to offer.

After investigating some pot holes today, as rookie council candidates invariably find themselves doing, I took the scenic route back towards Westhill. I was amazed at how the landscape had changed looking across to the industrial estate. The buildings actually look amazing and the area has attracted some big names in the business world and there are more to come.

Although from dawn to dusk the industrial estate is buzzing, it was nice and peaceful from where I was standing looking across the valley and the new friends I met seemed content enough in their corner of the world! One of them was more than happy to smile for the camera!