News / Ferry fares consultation
LOCAL people will have a chance on Monday to make their views known on reducing the ferry fares on the NorthLink lifeline services between Shetland, Orkney and the Scottish mainland.
The Scottish Government has appointed consultants Peter Brett Associates to gather views from ferry users.
This follows a commitment for cheaper fares on the northern isles routes after the introduction of the Road Equivalent Tariff slashed ferry fares on some west coast routes by more than 50 per cent.
During a visit to the isles in August, Scottish transport minister Humza Yousaf reiterated that a commitment and said that ferry fares would be cut sooner rather than later and added that any such reduction would be “meaningful”, without giving figures.
Peter Brett Associates has been given the job to gather views from a cross-section of ferry users on fares for passengers, cars and cabins.
Chairman of Shetland Island Council’s transport committee, Michael Stout, urged islanders to participate in the consultation.
“This is the first meaningful opportunity for anyone who travels on our lifeline ferry service to express their views on what they think the Scottish Government and Transport Scotland should take into account to address the cost of ferry travel, whether for business or leisure.
“The information gathered from this study will help them to consider how to introduce cheaper fares on the northern isles ferry routes.
“It’s vital that the views of those islanders who travel by ferry, either regularly or just occasionally, are captured in this study.”
Peter Brett Associates will be holding a drop–in session in the auditorium of the Shetland Museum on Monday 3 October between 4pm and 8pm.
Slides from the exhibition are available in advance of the meeting, while those unable to attend can air their views online here.
Become a supporter of Shetland News
Shetland News is asking its many readers to consider start paying for their dose of the latest local news delivered straight to their PC, tablet or mobile phone.
Journalism comes at a price and because that price is not being paid in today’s rapidly changing media world, most publishers - national and local - struggle financially despite very healthy audience figures.
Most online publishers have started charging for access to their websites, others have chosen a different route. Shetland News currently has over 630 supporters who are all making small voluntary financial contributions. All funds go towards covering our cost and improving the service further.
Your contribution will ensure Shetland News can: -
- Bring you the headlines as they happen;
- Stay editorially independent;
- Give a voice to the community;
- Grow site traffic further;
- Research and publish more in-depth news, including more Shetland Lives features.
If you appreciate what we do and feel strongly about impartial local journalism, then please become a supporter of Shetland News by either making a single payment or monthly subscription.
Support us from as little as £3 per month – it only takes a minute to sign up. Thank you.