Transport / ‘Time to tunnel’? Pre-seismic studies completed on possible Yell and Unst fixed link routes
INITIAL pre-seismic studies on potential tunnel routes to Yell and Unst – funded by local action groups – have been completed.
The Unst and Yell tunnel action groups are now set to procure the full seismic work that will underpin the technical and financial cases for tunnel development.
To increase public awareness and build on funds already raised, the two groups will launch a new Time to Tunnel campaign at the Unst Show tomorrow (Saturday).
The pre-seismic work was undertaken by Norconsult, the company responsible for the engineering design of all subsea tunnels in the Faroe Islands, in conjunction with Geophysix.
This is separate to the ongoing exploration of tunnels being undertaken by Shetland Islands Council.
Joint chairman of the Unst Tunnel Action Group Alec Priest said: “The completion of the pre-seismic studies is significant – it demonstrates our communities’ determination to make tunnels a reality and highlights the power of working together to achieve real progress.
“With the launch of Time to Tunnel, we want to maintain momentum, raise awareness more widely, and build the resources needed for the seismic studies.”
Steven Henderson, joint chairman of the Yell Tunnel Action Group, added: “Fixed links are not just about transport – they are about the long-term sustainability of our communities.
“They will secure jobs, improve healthcare access, reduce costs for businesses, and create opportunities for future generations. Time to Tunnel is about making that vision a reality.”
It was previously reported that an agreement had been worked on that will allow Shetland Islands Council access to the groups’ findings.
A major report on Shetland’s future inter-island transport needs was presented to councillors for the first time earlier in the summer.
As part of business case process, elected members agreed that the idea of tunnels to Yell, Unst, Bressay and Whalsay should be taken forward for further consideration.
However, question marks remain over how exactly any potential tunnels could be funded.
Tunnels to be taken forward for further exploration – but Fetlar fixed link ruled out for now
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