Local authorities in Shetland are taking a bold engineering approach, drawing inspiration from the Faroe Islands' experience – building underground transport arteries that can transform the archipelago's economic and social dynamics.
Axel Johannessen, the Prime Minister of the Faroe Islands, categorically states to the BBC that infrastructure investments represent a strategic approach to regional development. His country has built an impressive network of 23 tunnels, connecting 18 islands, including four underwater routes.
The most impressive among them is an 11.4-kilometer tunnel connecting Streymoy Island with two shores of a fjord on Eysturoy Island. The facility includes a unique underwater roundabout and reaches a maximum depth of 187 meters below sea level.
Key industry experts like Anne Anderson from Scottish Sea Farms emphasize the critical need for modernization. The company, which produces a quarter of Scottish salmon, sees potential for economic revival in the tunnels.
Technical experts like Andy Sloan from engineering firm COWI believe that Scottish islands can directly replicate the Faroese model. The "drill and blast" technology allows for efficient underground communication construction.
Local authorities in Shetland have already invested £990,000 in a feasibility study for building tunnels to four islands: Unst, Yell, Bressay, and Walls. The leading scenario includes financing through loans and fees, similar to the Faroese model.
Professor Erika Hayfield from the University of the Faroe Islands analyzes the social effects, highlighting the possibility for people to live in smaller settlements while maintaining a full connection with central economic zones.
Council Leader Emma MacDonald sees the tunnels as a transformative opportunity for the archipelago, which is already home to the UK's only space port and a thriving fishing industry.
Local residents like Pat Burns initially viewed the project skeptically but gradually recognize the potential benefits – more reliable deliveries, better connectivity, and economic prospects.
Currently, Shetland relies on an outdated ferry system with 12 vessels with an average age of 31.5 years, which annually transport around 750,000 passengers at a cost of £23 million.
Experts emphasize that the tunnels will not only improve transport connectivity but can also become a model for other islands in Scotland and beyond, demonstrating an innovative approach to regional development.
Although the final project value has not yet been determined, local authorities are optimistic about its feasibility and potential economic impact.