A £20 million fund will help Scotland's islands to play a crucial
role in our society, culture and economy.
The capital investment, to be split equally between the two local
authorities as part of the 2025/26 Budget, would help to sustain
and improve inter‑island connectivity in a way that best meets
local needs.
Ms Robison said:
“Scotland's islands face unique challenges and this government is
determined to do everything we can to support them.
“That is why the Budget I delivered last week included £20
million in new funding to support connectivity in the Northern
Isles, in a way that best supports their local communities.
“This will support work around ferries, flights or fixed links
such as tunnels and bridges. We have listened to the calls
from people in Orkney and Shetland and we are taking action –
that is what people in our islands can expect from this
government.
“Our Budget will deliver real progress for Scotland, which is why
we are asking Parliament to unite behind it.”
Background
The Scottish Budget for 2025 to
2026 was published on 4 December 2024.
The funding is in addition to £50 million revenue funding
available to the four councils (Orkney, Shetland, Argyll &
Bute, Highland) which operate their own ferry services, and £4
million to reflect the higher costs of delivering services in
island communities.
Interisland connectivity has been a focus of discussion at the
Orkney and Shetland Ferry Replacement Task Forces since early
2023.
