MPs to investigate economic case for fixed link connections

With many island communities currently being connected via ferry services, the lack of fixed-link connectivity is seen as a restriction on economic development.  

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.  

Patricia Ferguson, chair of the Scottish Affairs Committee, 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.”  

While transport policy and infrastructure development in Scotland are devolved matters, the inquiry will consider the UK Government’s strategic interest in enabling such developments. It will only make recommendations related to the UK Government’s economic and strategic case for supporting fixed link connectivity.