Three isles projects earn share of £3m Scottish Government funding
THREE Shetland projects have received a share of a £3 million Scottish Government fund dedicated to Scottish islands.
Projects in Mid Yell, Bressay and Scalloway are part of the funding for island projects which deliver critical infrastructure, boost local economies and improve access to services.
Thirteen projects across 12 Scottish islands will share in the Scottish Government’s Islands Programme Fund for 2026/27.
A total of £156,496 has been given to the Mid Yell Development Company (MYDC) for its plans to build a pier amenity building, as reported by Shetland News in January.
It would have toilet facilities as well as a store for the local boating club.
MYDC director Fiona Stirling said then that the estimated cost of the project stood at around £220,000, with Cooke Scotland promising £10,000 towards it.
UHI Shetland has also been handed £58,779 to modernise and expand its hairdressing training salon at its Scalloway campus.
The Scottish Government said the money would allow the college to help more young people access skill development opportunities without having to leave Shetland.
Speldiburn Community Hub in Bressay has also been awarded £77,150 towards its plans to enhance the facility further.
Bressay Development Limited previously said it had plans to upgrade the existing structure and facilities, including a completely new welcoming entrance and façade, an expanded and fully refurbished café, further studio, exhibition, arts and crafts and business spaces, and additional multi-use space.
The funding was announced today (Tuesday) by first minister John Swinney on a visit to Grimsay Heritage Centre, which is receiving £600,000 through the fund.
He said: “Our island communities have so much potential, and this funding will help them pursue ambitions rooted in local priorities, strengthening their long-term resilience and prosperity.
“From delivering critical infrastructure to offering opportunities for small businesses, these projects will support employment, generate revenue and improve community wellbeing.
“The Scottish Government is committed to making islands even more attractive places for people to live, work and raise families –securing the populations and livelihoods that island communities need to create a sustainable future.”
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