The UK government’s “Scottish Affairs Committee” of MPs said it has launched an inquiry to investigate the strategic and economic case for improved fixed transport links between Scotland’s islands via bridges and tunnels.
The committee said transport connectivity is a major challenge for Scotland’s islands, with many island communities currently being connected via ferry services.
“This lack of fixed-link connectivity can restrict economic development,” said the committee.
“Fixed links to connect the islands, such as bridges or tunnels, are increasingly being considered as long-term solutions.
“For example, Shetland’s Island Council has approved a feasibility study into building tunnels into undersea tunnel connections.
“Fixed link infrastructure like this has been a success in the Faroe Islands, an archipelago 200 miles further into the Atlantic than the Shetland Islands, which has been building undersea tunnels since the 1960s.
“Scotland’s islands have been highlighted as a key region for economic growth, due to their clean energy, tourism and space sectors.
“As momentum grows at a local level, the cross-party committee could examine the economic case for these fixed link projects and the UK Government’s potential strategic interest in supporting this infrastructure.
“Full terms of reference are available on the committee website. Submissions can be made via the committee’s website until 12 December 2025.
“Connectivity is a crucial issue affecting communities across Scotland, particularly those in remote, rural and island areas, where infrastructure delivery is complex and costly.
“Alongside this inquiry into physical connectivity, the committee will shortly be launching an inquiry into digital connectivity.”
The Scottish Affairs Committee members are: Labour MPs Patricia Ferguson (chair), Lillian Jones, Douglas McAllister, Kirsteen Sullivan, Maureen Burke and Elaine Stewart; Conservative MPs Jack Rankin and Harriet Cross; Liberal Democrat MPs Angus MacDonald and Susan Murray; and SNP MP Dave Doogan.
Committee chair Patricia Ferguson said: “Current transport links between Scotland’s islands simply don’t seem to be up to scratch. Delayed and cancelled ferries cause disruption for entire communities, and undoubtedly also pose huge barriers to the development of island economies.
“Fixed link infrastructure projects like undersea tunnels could be transformational for Scotland’s island communities.
“Throughout this inquiry, we’ll be looking closely at the economic case for these fixed link projects, their value for money and, ultimately, whether there could be a strategic interest for the UK Government to support their development.”