The draft IRM has been prepared by consultants Stantec, COWI and Mott MacDonald and is the final stage in the development of the long-term programme for inter-island transport connectivity.  It is based upon the decisions made by elected Members in June 2026 and sets these out in a timed programme of investment over approximately 30 years.

The decision will see initial plans for a tunnel from Shetland’s mainland to Yell progress first, followed by a tunnel from Yell to Unst, all dependent on full funding being secured.  The draft IRM also shows the proposed investment programme for ferry services for the other routes, including the immediate investment needed on Bluemull Sound.

The Scottish Government has confirmed that funding committed earlier this year will be made available to allow the project business case and pre-construction work for the Yell Sound tunnel to get underway.

Council Leader Emma Macdonald said: “This is a major step forward for our plans. With Scottish Government funding in place to begin initial work for the Yell Sound tunnel, the decision means that this work can now get under way. This is critical not only for Shetland but for Scotland and the UK, which will benefit from our growing seafood, renewable energy, tourism and space industries.  As the work begins, we will continue to pursue the long-term funding which will not only build our tunnels but be used to invest in our ferry services which will continue to be a lifeline for the isles.”

And she points out that the most significant challenge now is to secure funding to allow implementation of these plans to move forward.  

“Inter-island transport is the key to unlocking the potential of Shetland, and both the Scottish and UK Governments have a vested interest in helping that happen,” she continues.

According to Shetland News, Shetland Islands Council has at the same time cancelled its tender for a new relief ferry, a decision likely to delay delivery beyond the previously suggested 2028 or 2029 timeframe.

The council said to the media outlet that several significant issues need clarification before the design can be finalised and a contract awarded. Once that work is complete, councillors will receive a report on the next steps. The council said the decision would not affect its wider inter-island connectivity programme.

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