‘Transformational’ tunnels touted for the isles

Are tunnels between the isles the answer to Orkney’s ferry replacement problem? This was the suggestion made by Scottish Office Minister Iain Stewart while visiting the Faroe Islands last week.

Now Orkney’s MP, Alistair Carmichael has shared his own views on the matter.

While emphasising the ”transformational” potential of fixed links for parts of the Northern Isles, Mr Carmichael believes that political engagement and investment will still be needed for updated and sustainable ferries.

With four tunnels connecting the Faroes, Mr Stewart has suggested that the same approach could replace the ferry service in Orkney.

He said: “Given that some of their inter-island ferries will be coming to the end of working life in the foreseeable future, it’s a valid question.

“Instead of investing in another round of ferries, do they explore building a network of tunnels?”

Nevertheless, he did add that such a project could come at the substantial cost of £20million per kilometre.

Fixed links have the potential to be “transformational” for parts of the Northern Isles, according to Mr Carmichael.

“Even so the government must remember that this is not a cure-all for our infrastructure, particularly in Orkney,” he said.

“Where tunnels are less practical, we will still require political engagement and investment in updated, sustainable ferries for our communities.

“It is people in the isles themselves who must drive these discussions forward, with the support of our national leaders. Our communities are best placed to know what is needed in each island’s unique situation. What we will need from our governments is some respect for the strength of feeling in the isles, and a recognition that short-term thinking, or indeed investment, will not cut it.”