Information Bulletin
27 May 2004
Bressay Bridge will Benefit Economy
"Shetland business will benefit to the tune of almost £10 million as a result of the construction of the Bressay Bridge" said Shetland Convener Sandy Cluness yesterday. "This substantial sum added to the £40 million to be spent at the Anderson High School site over the next ten years or so, most of which will be spent locally, should provide an important contribution to our economy whilst some of our local industries are experiencing real financial difficulties and before we are in a position to benefit from the likes of renewable energy and oil field decommissioning."
The Bressay Bridge project will open up combined opportunities from local works contracts, accommodation and services, and related induced spending, to generate an economic injection approaching £10 million. "In addition to the immediate gains for the residents of Bressay and Shetlanders generally, the bridge opens up a huge potential for the Lerwick Port Authority and others to repeat their successes on the Lerwick side of the harbour," said Mr Cluness. "Our town is currently being severely restricted in its growth through lack of both commercial and social space - almost every tiny plot that ban be built on is being targeted for some kind of development. The situation would be entirely different, if like Maloy, both sides of the harbour were available."
The Council's current schedule is to begin work on site next Spring. The Convener is confident that the bridge proposal has been well researched, and that approval for the project should be available in time. "We appreciate the support in principle from the remaining objectors -- we can surely iron out any minor technical or legal problems with just a little goodwill, and we have made significant strides in the redesign of the approach roadways on the Lerwick side, which should substantially limit any disruption to the businesses at the north end of the harbour. Naturally we remain concerned at any potential difficulties faced by shipping, and in order to fully understand the Port Authority's concerns I have invited Captains George Sutherland and Michael Gray to provide everyone with the benefit of their extensive knowledge of piloting ships of all sizes through the harbour over many years."
The Bressay Bridge Project Team is arranging a meeting of all concerned next Monday, in a further attempt to reach a resolution in any final areas of concern. "We would like to demonstrate to the Scottish Executive that we are united in seeing this project through, said Mr Cluness, "and I will shortly be discussing with the Minister the need for an early decision on the way forward."