Under water but rising quickly

Subsea facility the Underwater Centre has seen a 100 per cent increase in companies using its trials and testing facilities this year.

It said the upturn in research pointed to a “growing confidence in the industry” with an increase in contracts awarded as well as the rapid expansion of the renewable sector.

Situated in Fort William, the centre is a purpose-built subsea training facility and leases the seabed of Loch Linnhe surrounding the extensive pier complex, with waters plunging to depths of 150 metres.