Stromness-Scrabster announcement is welcome news, says OIC convener

OIC convener, Councillor Stephen Hagan, has welcomed Transport Scotland’s confirmation that the Stromness-Scrabster route will be retained when a new contract for lifeline ferry services is awarded next year.

“The ferry link between Stromness and Scrabster is of fundamental importance to Orkney,” said Councillor Hagan.

“During the summer I have been in contact with John Swinney, the cabinet secretary for finance and sustainable growth, and Alex Neil, the cabinet secretary for infrastructure and capital investment, to stress just how important it is to retain this vital ferry route. We also highlighted the council’s determination that a crossing time of no more than one-and-a-half hours should be maintained on the Stromness-Scrabster run.

“I am delighted that the Government has listened to the council’s views. I will be writing to the two cabinet secretaries to thank them for recognising the economic importance of maintaining this crucial ferry link for Orkney.

“I will also restate the importance of retaining a vessel of the size and quality of the Hamnavoe – a ferry that can operate all year round on the Pentland Firth. This route – and the others linking Orkney to the Scottish Mainland – will always have a key role to play in supporting business, tourism and employment opportunities for our community.”