Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) has announced the four priorities it will pursue over the coming years. The priorities, which are mutually dependent, form the core of HIE’s new Operating Plan 2011-14, which takes effect from April. HIE will:

• support businesses and social enterprises to shape and realise their growth aspirations;
• develop key sectors, particularly distinctive regional opportunities
• create the conditions for a competitive and low carbon region.
• strengthen communities and fragile areas.

Alex Paterson Chief Executive said “HIE has a unique remit which integrates both economic and community development, and one of the features of our plan is placing our role in strengthening communities and fragile areas absolutely centre stage.”