Mackie Welcomes Vulcan Extension

Sixty years on, Vulcan continues to play its role in keeping our country safe.

As a councillor representing one of Scotland’s most remote yet resilient regions, I know first-hand how vital the NRTE Vulcan site is to the economic and social wellbeing of the Far North. The recent announcement of an extension to operations at the site is not just a technical or strategic development — it acknowledges in black and white the vital skills and expertise unique to Vulcan and the Far North.

For decades, Vulcan has provided stable, high-quality employment in an area where such opportunities are scarce. These are not just jobs — they are careers that sustain families, keep young people in the region, and support local businesses from Thurso to Wick and beyond. In a region where depopulation and economic fragility remain ongoing challenges, the continuity of operations offers a much-needed boost in confidence and certainty.

The site's work in supporting the UK’s defence infrastructure is undoubtedly critical at the national level, but here at home, it also means sustained investment in skills, infrastructure, and long-term community resilience. It reinforces the Far North's importance on the national map — not just as a remote outpost, but as a region playing a key role in the country’s future.

This extension is a moment to recognise and thank the dedicated local workforce whose expertise has made Vulcan’s reputation what it is today. It is also a call to ensure that investment continues in education, transport, and housing so our communities can thrive alongside the site’s continued operation.

In short, this is more than an operational decision — it’s a commitment to the people of Caithness and Sutherland. And that’s something to be proud of.