Select Committee · Scottish Affairs Committee
Connectivity in Scotland: Fixed links
Status: Open
Opened: 31 Oct 2025
Inquiry scope
Transport infrastructure plays an important role among island communities, supporting local economies and ensuring access to essential services. In Scotland, geographic barriers and limited transport options can restrict mobility and contribute to depopulation. This inquiry will examine the strategic case for permanent transport links—such as tunnels and bridges—between Scotland’s islands and assess whether there is a role for the UK Government in supporting such projects. Read the call for evidence for more details about the inquiry. This is one of two inquiries looking into connectivity in Scotland. We have also launched an inquiry into Digital Connectivity in Scotland For more information, visit - Connectivity in Scotland: Digital connectivity - Committees - UK Parliament If you have faced issues with digital connectivity in Scotland, please let us know by completing our short survey .Oral evidence sessions
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| Date | Session and witnesses | Source |
|---|---|---|
| 17 Jun 2026 |
Connectivity in Scotland: Fixed-links - Session 2
Duncan Mackinson · CalMac,
Louis de Wolff · CalMac,
Moraig Lyall · ZetTrans - Shetland's Regional Transport Partnership,
Nicky Sobey · Highlands and Islands Enterprise,
Ranald Robertson · HITRANS (Highlands and Islands Transport Partnership)
|
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| 20 May 2026 |
Connectivity in Scotland: Fixed links - Session 1
Andy Sloan · COWI,
Councillor Gary Robinson · Shetland Islands Council,
Councillor Heather Woodbridge · Orkney Islands Council,
Councillor Paul F Steele · Western Isles Council
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Who gave evidence
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| Witness | Organisation | Sessions |
|---|---|---|
| Andy Sloan · Managing Director, UK and Ireland | COWI | 1 |
| Councillor Gary Robinson · Depute Leader | Shetland Islands Council | 1 |
| Councillor Heather Woodbridge · Leader | Orkney Islands Council | 1 |
| Councillor Paul F Steele · Leader | Western Isles Council | 1 |
| Duncan Mackinson · Chief Executive | CalMac | 1 |
| Louis de Wolff · Fleet Director | CalMac | 1 |
| Moraig Lyall · Chair | ZetTrans - Shetland's Regional Transport Partnership | 1 |
| Nicky Sobey · Senior Policy Manager | Highlands and Islands Enterprise | 1 |
| Ranald Robertson · Partnership Director | HITRANS (Highlands and Islands Transport Partnership) | 1 |
Correspondence
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