Council / New £5m Cullivoe road nears final approval
THE CONSTRUCTION of a road in Cullivoe which will cost around £5 million is close to being given the green light.
A full business case for the new two-lane road between Gutcher and Cullivoe was backed by members of Shetland Islands Council’s policy and resources committee on Monday.
It will now go in front of the full council on Wednesday for final approval.
The upgrade of the B9082 from Gutcher to Cullivoe was made a priority road project in 2019 as it is no longer considered fit for purpose due to the number of HGV vehicles using the road.
It is a vital link road for the fishing and aquaculture industries which use the Cullivoe pier.
The road project has a proposed six-year development and construction period.
It would also “future proof” a possible fixed link connection to Unst.
Following a question from Lerwick member Stephen Leask, Neil Hutcheson from the roads department said the council would be in a position to start the land acquisition straight away.
This followed engagement with Yell Community Council to identify land owners.
Chairman of Shetland Islands Council’s environment and transport committee Ryan Thomson said the road improvements were “absolutely vital to us going forward”.
“It’s essential that we see this moving at a fast a speed as possible.”
Thomson moved to recommend that the full council approves the business case, with Robbie McGregor seconding.
Become a supporter of Shetland News
Shetland News is asking its many readers to consider start paying for their dose of the latest local news delivered straight to their PC, tablet or mobile phone.
Journalism comes at a price and because that price is not being paid in today’s rapidly changing media world, most publishers - national and local - struggle financially despite very healthy audience figures.
Most online publishers have started charging for access to their websites, others have chosen a different route. Shetland News currently has over 600 supporters who are all making small voluntary financial contributions. All funds go towards covering our cost and improving the service further.
Your contribution will ensure Shetland News can: -
- Bring you the headlines as they happen;
- Stay editorially independent;
- Give a voice to the community;
- Grow site traffic further;
- Research and publish more in-depth news, including more Shetland Lives features.
If you appreciate what we do and feel strongly about impartial local journalism, then please become a supporter of Shetland News by either making a single payment or monthly subscription.
Support us from as little as £3 per month – it only takes a minute to sign up. Thank you.
Already a supporter? Sign in to hide this message.
