widget/exchange-29
widget/exchange-30widget/exchange-33
widget/exchange-31

Transport / Action groups make case for tunnels ahead of island meetings this week

The Eysturoyartunnilin tunnel in Faroe. Photo: Ólavur Frederiksen

THREE action groups have reiterated why they believe tunnels are the way forward as ferry replacements ahead of a series of events this week on fixed links.

MP Alistair Carmichael and MSP Beatrice Wishart are hosting Tunnel Vision events in Yell, Unst, Fetlar, Whalsay and Bressay over the coming days.

Tunnel action groups for Yell, Unst and Whalsay have come together today (Monday) to encourage people to attend the meetings.

It is their view that tunnels are a “necessity for the future of Shetland’s island communities”.

The groups suggest tunnels would “require less than 10 per cent of the annual operating costs of the current ferry system”, meaning public funds could be redirected elsewhere.

They said tunnels would also boost economic growth and inclusion in addition to lowering inter-island transport’s carbon footprint.

“As we look to the future, it’s clear that tunnels are not just a better option – they are the best option,” the three groups added.

offset-carousel/post-mobile/0

“They promise a sustainable, reliable, and inclusive future for Shetland, ensuring that Shetland becomes increasingly connected, vibrant and resilient.”

Tunnels will be considered in Shetland Islands Council’s ongoing review of its inter-island transport network, which should result in business cases being produced for possible future investment.

However the Yell and Unst action groups have already been fundraising for surveys to be carried out on potential tunnels to the two islands.

Meanwhile the series of Tunnel Vision events kicks off at Baltasound Hall tonight (Monday) at 6pm.

On Tuesday there will be a meeting at the Fetlar Hall at 12.15pm and Mid Yell Hall at 6pm.

Shetland’s MP and MSP will then travel to Whalsay on Wednesday for a meeting at the Symbister Hall at 7pm, with things rounding off at the hall in Bressay on Thursday at 7.30pm.

Become a member of Shetland News

Shetland News is asking its many readers to consider paying for membership to get additional features and services: -

  • Remove non-local ads;
  • Bookmark posts to read later;
  • Exclusive curated weekly newsletter;
  • Hide membership messages;
  • Comments open for discussion.

If you appreciate what we do and feel strongly about impartial local journalism, then please become a member of Shetland News by either making a single payment, or setting up a monthly, quarterly or yearly subscription.

 
widget/pd_widget-6widget/pd_widget-7widget/exchange-53widget/exchange-54widget/pd_widget-8widget/exchange-55widget/pd_widget-9widget/exchange-56

Newsletters

Subscribe to a selection of different newsletters from Shetland News, varying from breaking news delivered on the minute, to a weekly round-up of the opinion posts. All delivered straight to your inbox.

Daily Briefing Newsletter Weekly Highlights Newsletter Opinion Newsletter Life in Shetland Newsletter

JavaScript Required

We're sorry, but Shetland News isn't fully functional without JavaScript enabled.
Head over to the help page for instructions on how to enable JavaScript on your browser.

Your Privacy

We use cookies on our site to improve your experience.
By using our service, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Cookie Policy.

Browser is out-of-date

Shetland News isn't fully functional with this version of .
Head over to the help page for instructions on updating your browser for more security, improved speed and the best overall experience on this site.

Interested in Notifications?

Get notifications from Shetland News for important and breaking news.
You can unsubscribe at any time.

Have you considered becoming a member of Shetland News?

If you appreciate what we do and feel strongly about impartial local journalism, then please consider paying for membership and get the following features and services: -

  • Remove non-local ads;
  • Bookmark posts to read later;
  • Exclusive curated weekly newsletter;
  • Hide membership messages;
  • Comments open for discussion.