New children's unit for Caithness mooted
A new home for children in council care could be built in Caithness.
Highland Council said the existing unit which opened in Northcote Street, Wick, in 1978 was outdated and should either be refurbished or replaced.
Officers estimate that building new residential accommodation in Wick would cost about £1.1m.
The Northcote unit originally had capacity for 12 children, but changes in practice and regulation has seen the number limited to a maximum of seven.
Residents' ages range from 13 to 17.
Highland Council's housing and social work committee will consider the options next week.