New terminal for North Ronaldsay airport

North Ronaldsay celebrated the opening of their brand new airport building this morning. The island’s terminal building now has a fire crew watch room and waiting room and a new garage for the fire vehicle that was purchased last year.

The building cost around £275,000 and was built by a local building firm with the design done by architects from Orkney Islands Council.

North Isles Councillor Graham Sinclair, vice-chair of the Council’s Development and Infrastructure committee, and former North Ronaldsay and retired airfield employee Helen Swanney officially opened the building at a ribbon cutting ceremony.

Councillor Sinclair said: “The Council is committed to bringing more people to the North Isles, to encourage economic growth and ensure a sustainable future for the island’s communities. The last few years have seen progression through a number of different projects and some of these include improving and modernising our airfields.

He added: “This is a fantastic addition to the island infrastructure of North Ronaldsay. It will make coming and going a more enjoyable experience – for locals and tourists alike – and hopefully attract more visitors to the island. I very much enjoyed the ceremony and it was great to have the opportunity to speak with some the island’s residents.”

Billy Muir, chair of the North Ronaldsay Community Council, said: “It is a brilliant new building. It’s got all of the modern facilities that we need including a separate watch room and waiting room which will make both passengers and employees more comfortable.

“This investment towards our community demonstrates the Council’s commitment to the island and we feel very fortunate to have such a nice airport facility.”