EXPERTS have said proposals to build a network of subsea tunnels linking several Scottish islands are “not fantasy” and could happen “relatively soon”.
A team of consultants appointed by Shetland Islands Council is currently exploring how transport links between the islands could be improved over the next 30 years.
Engineering consultancies COWI, Stantec and Mott MacDonald are collaborating on a study weighing up the merits of improved ferry links and fixed link options such as bridges or subsea tunnels.
Speaking to The Scotsman, he said: “This is not fantasy. It is not a theoretical exercise.
“It is real and tangible, it is happening around the world, and it may well happen relatively soon in Shetland.
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“In reality, whether from an engineering or a financial perspective, there is usually nothing enormously challenging involved.
“And the benefits of tunnelling reach far beyond simply a faster, more reliable and more environmentally friendly transport link than that provided by an ageing, carbon-intensive ferry.
“We don’t have to look all that far from our shores to see them. The Faroe Islands have been tunnelling for many decades, based on a strategy of ensuring that those in the outer islands can easily access the capital, Torshavn, and vice versa. It has been an extraordinarily successful programme.”
The study is part of a £700,000 project which seeks to make the case for funding future transport links in Shetland.
Stephen Canning, director of transport planning at Stantec, added: “For island communities across Shetland, the future of connectivity is a fundamental concern.
“The ability to access employment, services, and leisure opportunities on Shetland mainland; move high value goods; and facilitate travel to and service delivery in the islands requires a high-quality and resilient inter-island transport network.
“We are delighted to have been appointed by Shetland Islands Council, alongside our long-term partners COWI and Mott MacDonald to deliver the Shetland inter-island connectivity study. By working closely with island residents and other stakeholders, we will develop a strategy that, through promoting greater connectivity, will support improved wellbeing, resilience, and prosperity.”
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The Liberal Democrat MP for Orkney and Shetland, Alistair Carmichael, the Liberal Democrat MP for Orkney and Shetland, described a potential future tunnel network as “invaluable”.
"Any study that examines the future transport needs of the isles, including fixed links, is of course welcome,” he said.
“It is islanders themselves, however, who need to be in the driving seat in the campaign for tunnels in Shetland. We have already seen the benefits brought by bridges to Burra, Trondra and Muckle Roe.
“A tunnel network would be invaluable to supporting local economies and strengthening access to public services such as healthcare.
“I have seen first-hand how the Faroe Islands are linking up 18 islands and almost 90 per cent of their population, protecting them from bad weather and breakdowns. We need to see much more being done to deliver the political will and investment required to connect our communities long into the future."
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