Scotland invests £20M to improve transport between islands. Tunnels, ferries, and flights are options.
Councils will explore underwater tunnels, drawing inspiration from successful implementations in other locations, such as the Faroe Islands and Norway. Local people will ultimately decide how to use the funds, ensuring that travel options are improved for residents.
Scottish MPs have already visited the Faroe Islands to study their tunnel system. In the Faroe Islands, a new tunnel connecting Streymoy and Sandoy cost £9.8 million per kilometer; the entire tunnel is 10.2 kilometers long.
Shetland has also studied tunnel options. In 2023, consultants identified key routes, including Lerwick to Bressay, Mainland Shetland to Whalsay, Yell to Unst, and Yell to mainland.
Tunnels could potentially be better than ferries, offering greater reliability and lower costs. Furthermore, they may reduce carbon emissions, contributing to Scotland’s climate goals by reducing the need for diesel ferries.
The Faroe Islands demonstrate that tunnels can be a viable solution, making up 11% of their roads. Reports suggest that tunnels have boosted their economy by improving accessibility and connecting communities. Orkney and Shetland might see similar gains.
Scotland is investing £2.6 billion in transport, including upgrades to ferries and harbors, as well as improvements to rail lines. Old ScotRail trains will be replaced, and free bus travel will be expanded to include asylum seekers. Young people under 22 already benefit from free inter-island ferries.
While £20 million is allocated already, the project will need significantly more total funding to complete construction and need planning and discussion too. This initial allocation starts the process, which could transform island life and bring considerable economic and environmental benefits.
