SALMON SCOTLAND WELCOMES PROGRESS ON SHETLAND TUNNEL PLANS

Salmon Scotland welcomes progress on Shetland tunnel plans

Salmon Scotland has welcomed Shetland Islands Council’s decision to back draft plans for a network of undersea tunnels linking several of the islands, describing the proposals as a major boost for the aquaculture sector and the wider island economy.

Councillors have approved a draft strategy under the Inter-Island Transport Connectivity Programme, supporting fixed links between mainland Shetland and Yell, and between Yell and Unst. If funding can be secured from the Scottish and UK governments, the tunnels could be operational within the next eight years.

The council is also considering future fixed links to Whalsay and Bressay, although ferry services will continue to play a key role while those proposals are developed. The estimated cost of the four-tunnel network is around £1.5 billion, replacing the current inter-island ferry routes.

Following the council meeting, Council Leader Emma Macdonald said the decision marked a significant milestone for Shetland’s future.

“We have made our position clear today, and with the support of the Scottish and UK Governments we could be driving through tunnels in Shetland in as little as eight years from now.

“Islands with fixed links repopulate, enjoy economic growth and experience a reduction in their average age.

“The most critical consideration now is to continue to look at potential external funding, and our team will report back on that in September, alongside the draft Implementation Route Map.

“We have no ‘do nothing’ options here. Ferries and tunnels are both needed to unlock the potential of Shetland, and both the Scottish and UK Governments have a vested interest in helping that happen.”

The proposals have also been welcomed by Salmon Scotland, which highlighted the importance of improved transport links for one of Shetland’s largest industries.

Salmon farming contributes around £91 million annually to the Shetland economy and supports approximately 1,000 jobs across the islands, including around 390 roles directly on farms and at processing sites.

Tavish Scott, chief executive of Salmon Scotland, said:

“We strongly support the development of tunnels serving Unst and Yell.

“These would hugely benefit salmon farming and our supply chain businesses.

“As the major private sector employer in many of these island communities, we know just how important better connections would be.

“Reliable transport links matter every day for staff, suppliers, equipment and getting premium Scottish salmon to market.

“Stronger connections would support jobs, investment and future growth across Shetland. The tunnels can’t come soon enough.”

Main Image © Fish Focus

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