Laying out the best options

Orkney Air and Ferries Infrastructure Study

The Orkney inter-island transport network consists of a combination of ferry and air services, connecting 13 islands with Orkney mainland. Though the network continues to deliver high-quality lifeline connections, ageing assets and limitations associated with the current service (such as frequency, length of operating day, etc.) have led the Orkney Island Council to consider the future of the inter-island transport network at a strategic level.

Recognising the need to modernise and develop the network, the Council and partners commissioned the Orkney Inter-Island Transport Study (OIITS) to develop and appraise options for the future enhancement of the inter-island transport services. The purpose of this study was to determine the appropriate level of service for each island/island group as well as the cost implications.

Our multidisciplinary study team has developed, appraised, and costed a set of options for capital (vessels, harbours, fixed links, airfields, and aircraft) and revenue (additional sailings and / or flights). These options are based on identified transport problems within each island.

Now that the Council has a clearer understanding of each community’s needs, they can prioritize their spending and better support the transportation mobility needs of Orkney.