Drop in … and have your say on future ferry fares

Two drop-in sessions this week give people in Orkney the chance to join the debate on ways to reduce fares on ferry routes linking Orkney, Shetland and mainland Scotland.

Specialist consultants Peter Brett Associates have been appointed by Transport Scotland to gather views from the public on what form this reduction in fares should take, and how it should be implemented.

The consultants are holding the drop-in events Kirkwall Town Hall on Tuesday, October 4, and the Warehouse Buildings, Stromness, on Wednesday, October 5, covering passenger and car fares, and cabin charges. Both takes place between 4.30pm and 8pm.

Councillor James Stockan, chairman of Orkney Islands Council’s development and infrastructure committee, said: “The Scottish Government has given a commitment to cut fares on Northern Isles ferry routes and said recently that it is working towards that goal.

“The events in Orkney this week give people the chance to examine options for how this should be achieved on the various routes – and put forward their views and ideas.

“This is crucially important for our community and its future wellbeing and I would encourage as many folk as possible to take part.”