Transport / Ferries to move to restricted timetable
SHETLAND’s inter-island ferries are to move to a restricted timetable from Sunday morning (3 January) to preserve the overall resilience of the service.
The local bus timetable has also been amended so that key workers can, if required, meet the appropriate ferry run.
The new timetables are expected to be in place until at least the end of January 2021.
It comes amid a spike in cases of coronavirus in Shetland, with over 300 people now self-isolating.
All ferries should be booked either by phone or online – the booking office will be open on Saturday 2 January from 12 noon till 6pm.
From Sunday onwards it will be open 8am to 5pm, seven days a week, with folk asked to call 01595 745804.
A similar approach was taken earlier this year, and the system has already been slightly amended to deal with specific Covid-19 risks.
Shetland Islands Council’s environment and transport committee chairman Ryan Thomson said: “We’ve taken this decision to preserve the overall reliability of the service.
“Should any of our crews be required to isolate due to contact tracing for Covid-19, this timetable allows for that to happen with the lowest possible impact on the wider service.
“I would like to remind folk that, under the current Tier 3 guidelines, our ferries and buses should be used for essential travel only.
“I understand that this may inconvenience some in the community, but it is important that we all do what we can to limit transmission of the virus, and protect our essential services.”
The revised ferry timetables can be found here. The changed bus timetables can be found 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 600 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.
Already a supporter? Sign in to hide this message.
