Beyond The Briefing

 Glen Earrach Energy proposes a 2GW output and 34GWh maximum storage pumped hydro plant utilizing Loch Ness and Loch nam Breac Dearga on the Balmacaan Estate. If approved, this would be among the largest pumped storage projects in the UK.While aligning with the government's net-zero environmental plan for 2045, the project has faced objections. Save Loch Ness, a community campaign group comprising locals, businesses, and experts, opposes large pumped-storage hydro projects planned for the loch, citing concerns about environmental impact and the loss of the loch's natural beauty.To provide clarity, Shannon Marvell will meet with both parties to discuss potential benefits, community opinions, and the anticipated impact of pump hydro storage on the area.--This podcast was brought to you by Highland News and Media. Hosted by: Shannon MarvellProduced by: Christopher DixonJournalist: Shannon MarvellStories discussed in this episode:Loch Ness pumped storage hydro proposals prompt call from salmon fishery boarde for public inquiryLoch Ness Glen Earrach Energy hydro plans spark objections amid fears over increased traffic on A82 and seismic risksScottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) raises questions over Loch Ness hydro flood risksLoch Ness Glen Earrach pumped storage hydro project moves forward as planning application submittedLoch Ness £20 million Glen Earrach hydro scheme benefit fund consultation launchedGet notified for every episode and subscribe.Apple PodcastsSpotify YouTube

The papers have been signed and Alan Savage owns 100% of the Sarens PSG Stadium and the car park. In an exclusive interview by Andrew Henderson, Alan Savage is aiming to make the club commercially sound, increase fan engagement, and plans facility improvements, believing the team can succeed back into the championship.–This podcast was brought to you by Highland News and Media. Hosted by: Shannon MarvellProduced by: Christopher DixonJournalist: Andrew HendersonGet notified for every episode and subscribe.Apple PodcastsSpotify YouTube

With the Camanachd Cup Final approaching and as we see through the final leg of the Shinty Season. We discuss the recent investment to the home of Shinty and how this could set the gears in motion for open more discussions between Camanachd Association and its members to protect the cultural sport and attract communities to get involved. –This podcast was brought to you by Highland News and Media. Hosted by: Shannon MarvellProduced by: Christopher DixonJournalist: Scott MacLennanGet notified for every episode and subscribe.Apple PodcastsSpotify YouTube

Charlie’s Promise is a UK-based charity founded in memory of Charlie Cosser, a 17-year-old from Surrey who tragically lost his life due to knife crime in 2023.His dad, Martin, has made it his life mission to spread his story and tackle knife crime in the UK. In the Highlands we are lucky to see relatively little knife crime but education on this issue has made it important to Inverness Caley Thistle Football Club.–This podcast was brought to you by Highland News and Media. Hosted by: Shannon MarvellProduced by: Christopher DixonJournalist: Andrew HendersonGet notified for every episode and subscribe.Apple PodcastsSpotify YouTube

With Ross Countyconfirming Don Cowie's exit by mutual agreement, just weeks into the Championship campaign, we break down what Cowie’s departure means for Ross County’s season.We take a closer look at how supporters are reacting to the news and what they want to see next as well as hearing from the Staggies interim manager John Robertson, who shares his thoughts on stepping into the role and guiding the club through a pivotal period.–This podcast was brought to you by Highland News and Media. Hosted by: Shannon MarvellProduced by: Christopher DixonJournalist: Andrew HendersonStories discussed in this episode:Ross County still to find a win in the league as they are left stung by Partick Thistle in Dingwall to fall to the bottom of the ChampionshipRoss County looking for new manager as Don Cowie stands down by mutual consent after defeat to Partick Thistle which sent them to the bottom of the ChampionshipRoss County confirm appointment of John Robertson as Dingwall club’s interim manager following exit of Don CowieRoss County interim manager John Robertson intends to buy Staggies board time to decide future direction while bringing points back to DingwallRoss County interim manager John Robertson does not believe wholesale changes are needed in Dingwall to see Staggies rise back up Championship table-Get notified for every episode and subscribe.Apple Podcasts: SpotifyYouTube

In 2023, the Highlands was the third most visited region in Scotland with 8.4 million overnight visitors while 1.6 million people visit the Inverness and Loch Ness area each year. Bust despite this, there are also concerns within the region's tourism industry over the possible introductionof a visitor levy by the Highland Council which has been carrying out public consultation. But with councillors yet to decide, we talk to Ellen Fogel-Walker, the new destination Director of Visit Inverness Loch Ness about why their tourism businesses members are anxious on such a measure.–This podcast was brought to you by Highland News and Media. Hosted by: Shannon MarvellProduced by: Christopher DixonJournalist: Val SweenyGet notified for every episode and subscribe.Apple PodcastsSpotifyYouTube

First Minister John Swinney faced tough questions in Moray this week after his recent visit, not just about the future of the A96, but about roadworks dragging on in Keith, and a financial crisis threatening NHS Grampian.Today, we break down what was said, what wasn’t, and what it means for the people living in Moray. –This podcast was brought to you by Highland News and Media. Hosted by: Shannon MarvellProduced by: Christopher DixonJournalist: [Journalist]Stories discussed in this episode:Moray visit sees First Minister talk A96 dualling, Keith roadworks and moreGet notified for every episode and subscribe.Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ie/podcast/beyond-the-briefing/id1813346995Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6RZywdZ0t63MHjdq99C7ZJ?si=bb8a27cdacd94a05 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLZ8IF-aTyyiR8hXQFSWg0VwNHANIP7RYj

The Bare All Protest in Inverness documents a protest against the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) and Supreme Court rulings impacting trans rights. Multiple speakers address the erosion of trans rights, the protest highlights specific instances of discrimination, including hate crimes on trans people and access to public facilities.Speakers also emphasise the historical context of trans oppression and call for continued activism and solidarity. Andrew Henderson spoke to Star and Beth, who helped organise the protest.–This podcast was brought to you by Highland News and Media. Hosted by: Shannon MarvellProduced by: Christopher DixonJournalist: Andrew HendersonGet notified for every episode and subscribe.Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ie/podcast/beyond-the-briefing/id1813346995Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6RZywdZ0t63MHjdq99C7ZJ?si=bb8a27cdacd94a05 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLZ8IF-aTyyiR8hXQFSWg0VwNHANIP7RYj

This week, Dingwall is home to a new centre for neurodivergent children that is changing lives, not just through what it offers, but where it’s based.For families raising children with autism or complex support needs, access to the right help can feel miles out of reach, because often, it is. This new space promises something different: care that’s close, custom-built, and community-led.This podcast was brought to you by Highland News and Media. Hosted by: Shannon MarvellProduced by: Christopher DixonJournalist: Federica StefaniStories discussed in this episode:Dingwall opening of new support centre for neurodivergent children by charity Autism & Neurodiversity North Scotland (A-ND) hailed as milestone for Ross-shire familiesGet notified for every episode and subscribe.Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ie/podcast/beyond-the-briefing/id1813346995Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6RZywdZ0t63MHjdq99C7ZJ?si=bb8a27cdacd94a05 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLZ8IF-aTyyiR8hXQFSWg0VwNHANIP7RYj

This year, there’s a buzz at Belladrum around local music and headliner acts, one name in particular is Texas is making their return, with their only Scottish date this summer.To find out why, we’re joined by Rachel Smart, who caught up with Sharleen Spiteri ahead of the festival.–This podcast was brought to you by Highland News and Media. Hosted by: Shannon MarvellProduced by: Christopher DixonJournalist: Rachel SmartStories discussed in this episode:Sharleen Spiteri on why Belladrum is the only Scottish tour date for TexasGet notified for every episode and subscribe.Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ie/podcast/beyond-the-briefing/id1813346995Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6RZywdZ0t63MHjdq99C7ZJ?si=bb8a27cdacd94a05 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLZ8IF-aTyyiR8hXQFSWg0VwNHANIP7RYj

The Highland Green Freeport has a £890 million investment aiming to kickstart generational jobs in the Highlands. But amid the optimism, we have to ask: What has the Freeport ever done for us? From securing seed funding and landing manufacturers like Sumitomo, to tapping into North Sea renewables, there’s plenty on the table, but what does it mean here and now?–This podcast was brought to you by Highland News and Media. Hosted by: Shannon MarvellProduced by: Christopher DixonJournalist: Scott MacLennanStories discussed in this episode:Highland Green Freeport in race to secure ‘generational’ employment after amassing £890m of investment as boss Calum Macpherson says North Sea renewables ‘should take 50 to 100 years just to build out’Get notified for every episode and subscribe.Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ie/podcast/beyond-the-briefing/id1813346995Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6RZywdZ0t63MHjdq99C7ZJ?si=bb8a27cdacd94a05 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLZ8IF-aTyyiR8hXQFSWg0VwNHANIP7RYj

In this episode, we’re breaking down the big return of the Highland Games to Bught Park and the return of some heavyweight guests. With me is our newest reporter to the team, Lauren Cameron, who's been digging into what makes this year's Games special. –This podcast was brought to you by Highland News and Media. Hosted by: Shannon MarvellProduced by: Christopher DixonJournalist: Lauren CameronStories discussed in this episode:Inverness Highland Games 2025 to feature Strongmen Stoltman Brothers and sold-out ceilidhGet notified for every episode and subscribe.Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ie/podcast/beyond-the-briefing/id1813346995Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6RZywdZ0t63MHjdq99C7ZJ?si=bb8a27cdacd94a05 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLZ8IF-aTyyiR8hXQFSWg0VwNHANIP7RYj

Overlooking the River Ness, the Old High Church has stood at the heart of Inverness for centuries — steeped in Highland history, Jacobite connections, and even Outlander fame. Now, the landmark faces an uncertain future. The community group Save the Old High Inverness is campaigning to buy and transform the building into a public space for culture and heritage. With expert backing and a reduced asking price, their vision is clear — but it all depends on rallying enough support before time runs out. --This podcast was brought to you by Highland News and Media. Hosted by: Shannon MarvellProduced by: Christopher DixonJournalist: Val SweeneyStories discussed in this episode:Inverness Old High church building attracting interest, say campaigners pressing for community-led buyoutSave the Old High Inverness launches £100k crowdfunding campaign to buy city’s oldest church building with links to Battle of Culloden and Outlander TV seriesSave the Old High Inverness crowdfunding campaign to buy historic A-listed building raises £1100 in first weekOffers for Inverness Old High Church drops to £99,500 as price tag for the historic building slashed by one-thirdInverness Old High Church community buyout campaigners will press on as August closing date announced for offersClosing date announced for offers to buy Inverness Old High Church with links to Battle of Culloden and Outlander TV series--Get notified for every episode and subscribe.Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ie/podcast/beyond-the-briefing/id1813346995Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6RZywdZ0t63MHjdq99C7ZJ?si=bb8a27cdacd94a05 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLZ8IF-aTyyiR8hXQFSWg0VwNHANIP7RYj

Ward 4's uncertain future at Dr Gray’s Hospital in Elgin was recently revealed after a document, presented at a Moray Integration Joint Board (MIJB) meeting, revealed that Ward 4 "can no longer be maintained as an inpatient service". During a recent visit, Scotland’s Health Secretary  said he could not make any “firm commitments” to keep Ward 4 open. We walk through what was said, why it matters, and what could happen next  --This podcast was brought to you by Highland News and Media. Hosted by: Shannon MarvellProduced by: Christopher DixonJournalist: Lewis McBlaneStory's discussed in this episode:Dr Gray’s ward 4 closure threat ‘shocking’. blasts MSPDr Gray’s inpatient mental health ward under threat as Health Secretary says ‘more appropriate service’ needed Get notified for every episode and subscribe.Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ie/podcast/beyond-the-briefing/id1813346995Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6RZywdZ0t63MHjdq99C7ZJ?si=bb8a27cdacd94a05 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLZ8IF-aTyyiR8hXQFSWg0VwNHANIP7RYj

A heart wrenching story that no one would wish to experience. Listen to Chrissie Noble's sons discuss the life altering effect that can happen when the appropriate care has not been finalised.--This podcast was brought to you by Highland News and Media. Hosted by: Shannon MarvellProduced by: Christopher DixonJournalist: Scott MacLennanGet notified for every episode and subscribe.Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ie/podcast/beyond-the-briefing/id1813346995Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6RZywdZ0t63MHjdq99C7ZJ?si=bb8a27cdacd94a05 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLZ8IF-aTyyiR8hXQFSWg0VwNHANIP7RYj --Keep up to date with everything happening from Thurso to Grampian with Digital+.

It's Inverness and Nairn, or nothing.SNP Fergus Ewing has announced that he will be running in the 2026 Scottish Elections. And in his well-known style, he has announced that he will be running as an independent while not resigning from the SNP.--This podcast was brought to you by Highland News and Media. Hosted by: Shannon MarvellProduced by: Christopher DixonJournalist: Scott MacLennan--Get notified for every episode and subscribe.Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ie/podcast/beyond-the-briefing/id1813346995Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6RZywdZ0t63MHjdq99C7ZJ?si=bb8a27cdacd94a05 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLZ8IF-aTyyiR8hXQFSWg0VwNHANIP7RYj Keep up to date with everything happening from Thurso to Grampian with Digital+. Use the code: SOCIAL20 for your first year at £20.

After the relegation news looms over the pitch, Ross County's Chari, Roy MacGregor, and Cheif Executive, Steve Ferguson speaks about what is next for The Staggies.--This podcast was brought to you by Highland News and Media. Hosted by: Shannon MarvellProduced by: Christopher DixonJournalist: [Journalist]--Get notified for every episode and subscribe.Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ie/podcast/beyond-the-briefing/id1813346995Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6RZywdZ0t63MHjdq99C7ZJ?si=bb8a27cdacd94a05 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLZ8IF-aTyyiR8hXQFSWg0VwNHANIP7RYj Keep up to date with everything happening from Thurso to Grampian with Digital+. Use the code: SOCIAL20 for your first year at £20.

From Inverness to the front line of Ukraine, "Nessie the Nissan", a well-worn X-Trail has completed a 2800 mile journey.Behind the wheel was local mechanic Danny Ward, who gave up his annual leave, loaded Nessie with humanitarian aid and drove across Europe to deliver support to Kramatorsk. Packed with Highland kindness - from food to a bottle of single malt - this mission proves what many here already know: when the Highlands rally, the impact can reach far beyond our glens."They (Aid Ukraine) said they need a four-wheel drive, ideally a Nissan X-Trail, mainly because the people out there are used to them: driving them, working on them, (they) probably have spare parts for them; they're cheaper parts and are reliable vehicles.The shocking thing is, the budget comes out of the soldiers' wages. They do a whip-round to buy vehicles that they're losing.""I'd be proud if I were Ukrainian. You can't always say that for being British, but I would certainly be proud if I were Ukrainian"Danny's story takes us through the journey from meeting bomb makers to experiencing drone attacks. A crowd funding page has been set up to buy a truck which Danny will be behind the wheel of, heading to Kramatorsk once more.--The stories we discuss on this episode: https://www.inverness-courier.co.uk/news/car-mechanic-drives-to-ukrainian-front-line-to-deliver-nessi-382678/https://www.inverness-courier.co.uk/news/part-one-from-inverness-to-ukrainian-front-line-car-mecha-382751/https://www.inverness-courier.co.uk/news/part-2-i-was-in-a-war-zone-now-car-mechanic-describes-s-382757/https://www.inverness-courier.co.uk/news/part-3-meeting-a-bombmaker-turning-scrap-into-weapons-of-re-382761/--This podcast was brought to you by Highland News and Media. Hosted by: Shannon MarvellProduced by: Christopher DixonJournalist: Andrew Henderson Keep up to date with everything happening from Thurso to Grampian with Digital+. Use the code: SOCIAL20 for your first year at £20.

On June 28 1969, police raided Stonewall Inn, a gay bar in Greenwich Village, New York. Since 1970, the world has taken the month of June to protest for equal rights for the LGBTQ+ community. Recent months have brought both frustration and changes in the legal understanding of the trans community. However, this period also presents an opportunity for broader learning and discussion for everyone.The stories featuring in the podcast: Highland-based members of the LGBTQ+ community come together for a round table discussion in Inverness for History MonthIn February, Andrew Henderson ran a group discussion, along with five members of the community, to speak on how inter-generational conversations are important and the challenges that are currently being faced by people who identify as LGBTQ+. Now that we’re in Pride month and Highland Pride is tomorrow, hear the stories in full.  Keep up to date with the latest LGBTQ+ news from around the Highlands by subscribing to our free newsletter, The Queerier--This podcast was brought to you by Highland News and Media. Hosted by: Shannon MarvellProduced by: Christopher DixonJournalist: Andrew Henderson Keep up to date with everything happening from Thurso to Grampian with Digital+. Use the code: SOCIAL20 for your first year at £20.

Just over seven months of Caley Jags not knowing if Inverness Caley Thistly will recover from administration. As of today, the future looks bright again as the company voluntary agreement (CVA) is agreed.Listen to the full press conference exclusively on Beyond the Briefing.--This podcast was brought to you by Highland News and Media. Hosted by: Shannon MarvellProduced by: Shannon MarvellJournalist: Andrew Henderson Keep up to date with everything happening from Thurso to Grampian with Digital+. Use the code: SOCIAL20 for your first year at £20.

Cancer is a life-altering diagnosis. While many cancer stories focus on inspiring events and challenges, Rachel's "Life After Cancer Series" highlights another crucial aspect: life continues beyond cancer.We hear the powerful journeys of five individuals from the Highlands who have transformed their lives following cancer diagnoses. --Read more on their stories here: https://www.inverness-courier.co.uk/news/life-after-cancer-survivor-retrains-to-be-a-personal-traine-376974/https://www.inverness-courier.co.uk/news/life-after-cancer-i-can-do-this-attitude-helps-woman-lear-376408/https://www.inverness-courier.co.uk/news/life-after-cancer-why-society-needs-normalise-post-surgery-378789/https://www.inverness-courier.co.uk/news/life-after-cancer-tattoos-kayaking-and-a-new-career-helps-377252/https://www.inverness-courier.co.uk/news/life-after-cancer-man-who-survived-cancer-three-times-urges-378221/--This podcast was brought to you by Highland News and Media. Hosted by: Shannon MarvellProduced by: Christopher DixonJournalist: Rachel SmartKeep up to date with everything happening from Thurso to Grampian with Digital+. Use the code: SOCIAL20 for your first year at £20.

In light of a 13 year-old boy's letter to the Highland Council pleading for his support to be reinstanted was a heart wrenching story to hear. No child should feel left out of an education. It' is crutial for the right needs to be put in place at the start of a child's education. We spoke to Federica Stefani who tells us about what criteria a child has to meet to recieve additional support needs (ASN) in thwe Highland and what effect this may have in the near future. You can find our success story, and more here: https://www.northern-scot.co.uk/news/i-am-struggling-teenager-13-calls-to-reinstate-additio-380714/Get full access to your local content by using SHANNON at checkout for a Digital+ Annual subscription, at £20 for the first year. --This Podcast is created by Highland News and MediaHost: Shannon MarvellProducer: Christopher DixonJournalist: Federica Stefani

We're diving into the heartwarmng initiative that swept across the Highlands and Moray: the 'Give Blood, Save Lives' Campaign. Launched by Highland News & Media and the Scottish Nation Blood Transfusion Service in November 2024, this collaborative effort aimed to collect 5,000 vital blood donations by Easter 2025 to combat critical shortages and encourage regular donations. We are joined by Grrgor White who brough this campign to life, a new donor himself, we looked inot how one donation can benefit patients with different care needs and how simple the donation was. You can find our success story, and more here: https://www.inverness-courier.co.uk/news/5000-thank-yous-campaign-to-boost-blood-donations-in-the-no-380357/Get full access to your local content by using SHANNON at checkout for a Digital+ Annual subscription, at £20 for the first year. --This Podcast is created by Highland News and MediaHost: Shannon MarvellProducer: Christopher DixonJournalist: Gregor White

Inverness has everuything from History to wild lanscapes - but despite this image, crime ios still an issue. We are jouined by Political Reporter, Scot Maclennan and Highlands and Island MSP, Edward Mountain, to discuss his recent walk with Police Scotland and his recent visit to HMP Inverness and HMP Highland. Mountain discusses his fustration of the lack of implimentation of a database that would streamline the process of completing paperwork that would mean officers would be out on the streets quicker.Find out what he discovered about the experience of officers in Inverness on a typically lively Friday evening

Prescribed £34 Million in Patient Compensation – What Went Wrong?The NHS is a service many of us rely on often with the quiet reassurance that it is there when we need it most. For some it's more than just reassurance, it's a lifelineBut when this lifeline fails the cons can be deeply traumatic and, in some cases, life altering.Over the past 5 years NHS Highland and Grampian have paid out a combined £34 million in patient compensation. Meanwhile the Scottish Government have been criticised for leaving front line staff dangerously overstretched - a situation that is increasing the risk of error and put both p and prof at a greater a riskToday Scott MacLennan is here to make sense of it all. NHS Highland and Grampian are experiencing strain across various areas. This report examines the actions being taken to alleviate this pressure and improve the health service.Read more here: https://www.inverness-courier.co.uk/news/nhs-highland-and-nhs-grampian-paid-out-a-combined-34m-in-pa-379972/Keep up to date with everything happening from Thurso to Grampian with Digital+. Use the code: SOCIAL20 for your first year at £20.