MPs have urged the UK and Scottish governments to give serious consideration to bridges and tunnels linking Scotland’s islands, warning that unreliable ferry services are restricting everyday life and economic opportunities in remote communities.
In a report published on 16 October 2026, the House of Commons Scottish Affairs Committee said permanent transport connections, known as fixed links, could offer substantial benefits where they are practical and supported by local residents.
Ferry disruption affects essential journeys
The committee found that island communities face longstanding connectivity problems associated with ageing ferries and cancellations. Evidence presented to MPs described difficulties accessing healthcare, education and employment, alongside pressures on businesses and concerns about younger residents moving away.
MPs said replacing older vessels alone might not resolve all of these challenges. They highlighted proposals in Shetland and the Western Isles as deserving particular attention, while stressing that different islands face different circumstances.
Should Westminster help pay?
Transport is devolved to Scotland, but the committee argued that the UK Government should not rule out supporting fixed-link proposals. It pointed to potential wider UK benefits, including connections serving clean-energy and space-related industries.
The report urged ministers to engage constructively with communities, local authorities and the Scottish Government, and to consider social and cultural benefits as well as financial returns when assessing proposals.
Island communities must decide
Committee chair Patricia Ferguson MP said fixed links could transform connectivity in suitable locations, but emphasised that decisions must be led by the island communities concerned.
The committee drew on evidence from the Faroe Islands, where bridges and tunnels have connected communities across multiple islands. It also acknowledged that major projects involve costs, practical challenges and possible drawbacks requiring local scrutiny.
Ferries will still be needed
MPs explicitly warned that bridges and tunnels would complement rather than replace ferry services. Permanent links may be viable only for certain shorter crossings, and improving the reliability of existing ferry routes remains an urgent priority.
No new UK Government construction funding or approval for a specific bridge or tunnel was announced in the report. Its conclusions are recommendations for ministers and other decision-makers to consider.