Scottish Affairs Committee urges support for Shetland island tunnels

The Westminster Scottish Affairs Committee has published a report urging the UK and Scottish governments to consider fixed links, such as tunnels and bridges, to improve connectivity for Scotland’s islands. The committee noted that while ferries remain essential, tunnels could be “transformative” for shorter inter-island routes, specifically in Shetland and the Western Isles.

In Shetland, a proposed £1.5 billion plan for tunnels connecting the mainland to islands like Yell, Unst, and Whalsay could help reverse depopulation and boost economic prospects. The Shetland Islands Council has already prioritized a fixed link to Yell, a project estimated to cost over £500 million. The committee suggested the UK Government should not treat these projects solely as devolved matters and should actively engage with local communities and the Scottish Government to support such infrastructure.

The report draws inspiration from the Faroe Islands, where a network of tunnels and bridges has successfully connected remote communities. While the Scottish Government has committed £23 million for pre-construction work, the committee emphasized that any progress must have the support of affected local populations.