OIC News

Convener and Committee Chairs elected for new Council

Wed, 16 May 2012 12:52:53 GMT

Following today’s Statutory General Meeting of Orkney Islands Council, the appointments of Convener and Vice Convener and Chairs of Committees have been made.

Calling religious representatives for Committee

Tue, 15 May 2012 14:13:16 GMT

Orkney Islands Council is calling for nominations from representatives of churches or denominational bodies to stand on the Council’s Education, Leisure and Housing Committee for the next five years.

Wheelie bin reminder for pilot households

Tue, 15 May 2012 08:26:12 GMT

With the Council’s Alternate Weekly Collections pilot starting shortly, households in Holm and Kirkwall South are being reminded to make sure they are ready for their new waste collection arrangements.

Stromness paving roadworks update

Mon, 14 May 2012 10:41:52 GMT

Church Road in Stromness will be closed from today (May 14) until May 25 to enable the completion of the current phase of the repaving works.

Summer transport guide coming soon

Mon, 14 May 2012 10:30:47 GMT

The summer edition of the transport guide for Orkney will be available from May 17 from Travel Centres, OIC Customer Services and on the Council's website.

Deadline for Community Council nominations extended

Mon, 14 May 2012 09:50:24 GMT

The deadline for nominations from people wanting to stand for their local Community Council has been extended until 5pm on Monday May 28.

Stromness Registration Office move

Fri, 11 May 2012 14:00:40 GMT

The Stromness Registration Office will move on Thursday May 17 from its current location at the Old Ferry Terminal building to the Stromness Library in Hellihole Road.

Stromness paths improvements get a kick start

Fri, 11 May 2012 13:55:09 GMT

Three popular walking areas in Stromness are getting path improvements thanks to additional ‘Kick Start Kirkwall’ funding secured by the Council late last year.

Calling applications for the Orkney Local Licensing Forum

Wed, 09 May 2012 08:37:14 GMT

Applications have opened for positions on the body in Orkney which gives advice on local licensing issues.

Council and island Trusts work together to boost sustainability

Wed, 09 May 2012 08:01:55 GMT

A special meeting on North Ronaldsay this Friday May 11 at 7pm will give the community the opportunity to talk about ambitions for boosting their island’s sustainability, and discuss the Development Trust’s development plan for the island which is being finalised with help from the Council.

Council seeking details on new Northern Isles Ferry Contract

Fri, 04 May 2012 07:54:00 GMT

Following news today (May 4) from the Scottish Government announcing Serco as the preferred bidder for the new Northern Isles Ferry Contract, Orkney Islands Council has moved to seek further details on the service.

KGS music pupils hit the high notes

Tue, 01 May 2012 10:30:00 GMT

KGS music teachers and pupils are celebrating a successful year with several pupils having represented Orkney recently at a national level in music ensembles and training courses, and achieving some of the highest grades possible in their chosen instruments.

Exhibition showcases the artefacts from Ness of Brodgar archaelogical site

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 15:17:00 GMT

‘Ness of Brodgar: The Heart of Neolithic Orkney’ is a chance to find out more about the archaeological site that everyone it talking about.

Top science scholarship for Orkney youngsters

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 10:34:00 GMT

Three pupils from Orkney have been awarded a prestigious science grant to help them carry out research projects this summer.

KGS timetable to change in June

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 10:11:00 GMT

A new timetable will be introduced at Kirkwall Grammar School in the summer following a consultation exercise earlier this year.

Factory unit to be advertised for lease

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 10:08:00 GMT

Orkney Islands Council is to seek a new tenant for the factory unit in Stromness previously used by the Orkney Herring Company.

Taskforce looking for workable solution for local meat trade

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 16:02:00 GMT

The taskforce set up after Orkney Meat Limited announced its decision to cease trading is considering ways it can support efforts to get a short term solution in place – to allow a continued supply of locally-produced meat to the county’s butchers, wholesalers and other customers.

Calling Community Council candidates

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 13:29:28 GMT

With the Community Council elections due to be held shortly after the Local Government Elections, the Council is issuing a reminder for anyone interested in standing that nominations will close on May 8.

Pupils celebrate new synthetic pitch opening

Mon, 23 Apr 2012 13:40:00 GMT

Pupils from Papdale Primary and Kirkwall Grammar have kicked off on their new synthetic grass pitch.

How to fill out your ballot paper - it’s all about numbers

Fri, 20 Apr 2012 08:49:12 GMT

With over 3200 people across Orkney about to receive their postal ballot packs, the Council is issuing a reminder to everyone voting in the Local Government Election on May 3 to ensure they number candidates in order of preference on their ballot paper.

Local Plan update coming to you

Thu, 19 Apr 2012 13:17:04 GMT

A leaflet outlining the next steps in the finalisation of Orkney’s Local Development Plan, including a consultation which will run from May 7 to June 11, will be delivered to every household in Orkney from April 30.

Do you need a proxy vote?

Thu, 19 Apr 2012 12:01:10 GMT

Final advice has been issued for people who need a proxy vote for the May 3 Local Government Election.

Last day to register or arrange a postal vote

Tue, 17 Apr 2012 15:28:50 GMT

Wednesday 18 April is the cutoff for registering to vote or for arranging a postal vote.

Preparations underway for alternate weekly collection pilot

Tue, 17 Apr 2012 15:16:56 GMT

Wheelie bins are being delivered to the homes that will help pilot plans by Orkney Islands Council for an alternate weekly waste collection.

Young people urged to have their say

Tue, 17 Apr 2012 15:08:51 GMT

Young people in Orkney are being urged to take part in this year’s Council elections on May 3.

Grid debate turns spotlight on charging for the isles

Tue, 17 Apr 2012 08:55:05 GMT

A delegation representing Orkney Islands Council and renewables developers will be at Holyrood on Wednesday (April 18) when the Scottish Parliament debates proposals for grid transmission charges from the energy regulator Ofgem.

Hatston Enterprise Area Development Brief consultation

Mon, 16 Apr 2012 14:15:03 GMT

A development brief for the planned Enterprise Area at Hatston will be published for a six week period of consultation from April 19 to May 31 2012.

Orkney Library shortlisted for UK industry award

Mon, 16 Apr 2012 14:06:14 GMT

Orkney Library and Archive has been shortlisted for the Library of the Year award run by industry specialists The Bookseller.

Twenty years of Bag the Bruck celebrated by new publication

Mon, 16 Apr 2012 09:52:05 GMT

With Bag the Bruck 2012 coming up on the weekend of Saturday 21 and Sunday 22 April, Environmental Concern Orkney (ECO) is celebrating its 20th year of Bag the Bruck by producing a new online leaflet about tackling marine litter in Orkney.

Six weeks of free weekend parking in Stromness

Fri, 13 Apr 2012 08:40:00 GMT

Visitors to Stromness will benefit from free parking in Stromness town centre for the next six Saturdays whilst the final stage of the town’s repaving work is completed.

Final reminder on postal votes

Fri, 13 Apr 2012 08:35:00 GMT

Over 3000 voters have now registered for a postal vote in Orkney - those who would also like to vote by post are being reminded that if they wish to use a postal vote to take part in the local council elections on May 3 then they must apply to do so – application forms are not being sent out automatically.

Only days left to register to vote

Wed, 11 Apr 2012 16:20:31 GMT

Orkney Voters have just a few days left to make sure they can have their say in the Local Government Election on May 3.

Where will you be on election day?

Fri, 06 Apr 2012 13:49:15 GMT

Voters have just a few days left to make sure they can have their say in the Local Government Election on May 3, no matter where they may be on election day.

Isles urged to pop it in the post

Fri, 06 Apr 2012 13:41:43 GMT

People who live in Orkney’s isles communities are being urged to make sure they can vote in the Council election on May 3.

Snapshot of Orkney’s Arts community published

Fri, 06 Apr 2012 13:35:53 GMT

Orkney Islands Council has published a comprehensive guide to Orkney’s arts community for public comment.

A first chance for a look inside Braeburn

Fri, 06 Apr 2012 08:19:03 GMT

An open morning is to be held at Braeburn, the new health and social care facility in St Margaret’s Hope, on Saturday April 14 between 10am and 1pm.

Bank charges ‘refund’ scam

Tue, 03 Apr 2012 11:07:35 GMT

Orkney Islands Council’s Trading Standards is warning the public to be on their guard against scammers attempting to extract personal bank account details for unscrupulous purposes.

Cash for community transport

Tue, 03 Apr 2012 10:58:16 GMT

Groups wanting to set up special community transport initiatives are invited by Orkney Islands Council to apply for funding from the Community Transport scheme.

Prehistoric technology demonstrations over Easter

Tue, 03 Apr 2012 10:50:25 GMT

A long weekend of ancient axemaking and other prehistoric craft demonstrations will take place this Easter at the Tomb of the Eagles, supported by the Scapa Flow Landscape Partnership Scheme and Orkney Islands Council.

Isles get set to vote by post

Tue, 03 Apr 2012 08:38:10 GMT

Voters in Orkney’s island communities are being reminded to make sure they apply for a postal vote before April 18 for the May 3 Council elections.

Draft housing development brief for Eastbrae, Stromness

Mon, 02 Apr 2012 08:38:55 GMT

Orkney Islands Council has published a draft housing development brief for the semi-rural area in Stromness known as Eastbrae for public consultation.

Council re-opens £1M Community Development Fund

Mon, 02 Apr 2012 08:34:06 GMT

Orkney Islands Council has re-opened its Community Development Fund (CDF) today (April 2) to new applications, with a further £1M available to local community projects.

Ferry timetable change on Olympic Torch Relay Day

Fri, 30 Mar 2012 12:39:52 GMT

Community Councils in the North Isles have been informed of a further change to the Orkney Ferries timetable on the day of the Orkney stage of the Olympic Torch Relay.

Have your say on Affordable Housing planning guidance

Fri, 30 Mar 2012 11:23:39 GMT

Orkney Islands Council is consulting on draft planning guidance aimed at helping to generate more affordable housing in the county.

OIC calls for comment on fish farming planning guidance

Fri, 30 Mar 2012 11:12:36 GMT

Orkney Islands Council is seeking feedback on future planning guidelines for fish farming in Orkney.

List of polling stations published for May 3 Local Government Election

Fri, 30 Mar 2012 11:03:25 GMT

The list of polling stations for the Local Government Election on May 3 in Orkney is available on the Council website.

Election Candidates published

Thu, 29 Mar 2012 16:30:37 GMT

The full list of candidates who have come forward to stand in the Local Government Election in Orkney on May 3 is now available on the OIC website.

Winner of business survey draw announced

Thu, 29 Mar 2012 15:45:55 GMT

The Business Gateway in Kirkwall has announced the winner of their Orkney Business Survey prize draw.

Timetable change planned at KGS

Tue, 27 Mar 2012 09:23:05 GMT

Orkney’s largest school plans to introduce a new timetable later this year after conducting a consultation on the proposals.

Stromness pupils get down and dusty with heritage building skills

Fri, 23 Mar 2012 12:11:40 GMT

Around 80 S1 pupils from Stromness Academy will have the chance to try their hand at some traditional building skills next week with help from Orkney College, local contractors, Historic Scotland and the Stromness Townscape Heritage Initiative.

Clock is ticking for would-be Councillors

Fri, 23 Mar 2012 12:08:19 GMT

Nominations close in under a week for anyone wanting to stand for election as an Orkney Islands Councillor on May 3.

New Arts Theatre taking shape

Fri, 23 Mar 2012 12:06:40 GMT

The final pieces of steel have been lowered into place at Orkney’s newest arts facility.

New senior management team at OIC

Thu, 22 Mar 2012 09:27:03 GMT

Orkney Islands Council has completed the recruitment process for its new senior management structure.

Traffic Regulation Orders consultations extended

Thu, 22 Mar 2012 09:04:25 GMT

Orkney Islands Council is extending several consultations on proposed traffic regulation orders, to help generate a clearer idea of community feeling on the plans.

Olympic Flame countdown for William and Inga

Wed, 21 Mar 2012 10:54:36 GMT

The torchbearers chosen to represent Orkney Islands Council when the Olympic Flame arrives in the county in June are international athlete William Sichel and Orkney hockey team captain Inga Kemp.

Orkney leading the way towards 2012 homelessness commitment

Wed, 21 Mar 2012 08:39:00 GMT

Orkney is one of the first local authorities in Scotland to meet the historic 2012 homelessness commitment – with ten months still to go until the new legislation comes in to force.

Feedback helps shape Youth Work Information Event

Mon, 19 Mar 2012 12:04:53 GMT

Orkney Islands Council and partners wish to thank everyone who attended the recent Youth Work Information and Training Day in the Kirkwall Town Hall.

Pilot survey starts for Local List of heritage buildings

Mon, 19 Mar 2012 11:27:49 GMT

Work has started on a pilot survey of traditional buildings in Birsay as part of a project to compile a Local List of all important built structures across Orkney.

Look out for your poll card

Mon, 19 Mar 2012 11:19:17 GMT

Poll cards will be arriving through Orkney letterboxes over the next couple of days for all those eligible to vote at the Local Government Elections on May 3.

Council confirms the streets the Olympic Flame will be carried along

Mon, 19 Mar 2012 08:54:29 GMT

The route the Olympic Flame will take during its time in Orkney was revealed today with the help of one of the specially selected torchbearers – former PE teacher and athlete Wilma Taylor.

Partnership takes small business procurement concerns to Scottish Government

Thu, 15 Mar 2012 15:07:58 GMT

Orkney’s Community Planning Partnership has agreed to take small business concerns about public sector procurement to the Scottish Government.

So you want to be a Councillor - new video from OIC

Thu, 15 Mar 2012 10:23:58 GMT

The first video to appear on Orkney Islands Council’s website provides advice to anyone thinking of standing in May’s local government elections.

New lease of life for Rae’s Close

Tue, 13 Mar 2012 09:04:34 GMT

Proposals to make some vacant Sheltered Housing properties at Rae’s Close in Stromness available for use as supported housing for people with particular needs will be considered by Full Council later this month.

Election nominations open tomorrow

Tue, 13 Mar 2012 08:50:41 GMT

The official Notice of Election has been published today (13 March) and nominations for the May 3 Council elections open tomorrow (Wednesday).

Smart technology a first for islands concession cards

Mon, 12 Mar 2012 15:32:59 GMT

Isles residents who are on the Council’s Concessionary Travel Scheme for older and disabled people will soon be using ‘smart cards’ to claim their travel concessions from the Council.

Orkney pupils prepare for Glasgow 2014

Mon, 12 Mar 2012 14:20:55 GMT

Ten pupils from across Orkney travelled to Aberdeen recently to take part in a programme aimed at helping young people develop a Glasgow 2014 festival in their school communities.

Surname inheritance scam hits Orkney

Mon, 12 Mar 2012 13:20:15 GMT

Orkney is again being bombarded with scam letters, this time purporting to be from private investment managers claiming that the recipients could be entitled to millions of dollars thanks to their surname.

Additional session for prospective Councillors

Fri, 09 Mar 2012 10:48:27 GMT

Orkney Islands Council is holding another information evening on March 19 for anyone interested in standing for the May 3 Local Government Election.

OIC publishes annual report

Thu, 08 Mar 2012 14:30:03 GMT

Orkney Islands Council has published its Annual Performance Report for 2011.

Are you ready for an election?

Thu, 08 Mar 2012 12:25:59 GMT

With Local Government elections on May 3 drawing ever closer, the Electoral Registration Officer in Orkney is urging residents to make sure they have secured their right to vote.

Trading Standards Warning after National Alert over Jequirity Bean Bracelets

Tue, 06 Mar 2012 12:51:00 GMT

Orkney residents are being warned about bracelets that contain poisonous red and black Jequirity beans.

Community views sought on Brinkies Brae walkers’ rest

Mon, 05 Mar 2012 12:14:38 GMT

Scapa Flow Landscape Partnership Scheme is seeking public responses to a plan to provide a viewpoint and seat along the route of the footpath in fields belonging to Orkney Islands Council on Brinkies Brae in Stromness.

New funds help take cycle training to the road

Fri, 02 Mar 2012 11:34:59 GMT

School pupils in Orkney will soon be equipped with the skills to cycle safely on the road thanks to a successful bid by Orkney Islands Council for £9,300 of funding from Cycling Scotland.

Scottish ETV Group meets with Secretary of State for Scotland

Thu, 01 Mar 2012 11:40:00 GMT

The Scottish ETV Working Group met with the Secretary of State for Scotland this morning (Thursday) to discuss options for the continuation of emergency towing capabilities around the Northern and Western Isles.

Last chance to apply for Stromness THI conservation grants

Thu, 01 Mar 2012 09:16:08 GMT

As the final round of Stromness THI conservation grants opens, town has been highlighted by Historic Scotland as a conservation success story.

Special children’s author visit inspires St Andrews young writers

Thu, 01 Mar 2012 09:00:44 GMT

St Andrews Primary is hosting a special visit from Scottish children’s author Lari Don on March 19 at 7.00pm thanks to help from the Scottish Book Trust.

Electric truck a first for OIC fleet

Thu, 01 Mar 2012 08:58:21 GMT

Orkney Islands Council is taking to the streets with the first electric vehicle of its kind in Scotland.

Companies invited to complete Orkney-wide business survey

Thu, 01 Mar 2012 08:56:23 GMT

Businesses are being asked about their future prospects in the biggest survey of its kind to be run in Orkney.

Thinking of standing for local government election?

Tue, 28 Feb 2012 14:09:39 GMT

Orkney Islands Council is holding an information evening on March 5 for anyone interested in standing for the May 3 Local Government Election.

Scottish Government Commission on Rural Schools to visit Orkney

Fri, 24 Feb 2012 10:27:45 GMT

A Scottish Government team will be holding a public meeting in Orkney at the Stromness Academy on March 12 to gather feedback for a nation-wide study of remote and rural education.

Scottish Government Commission on Rural Schools to visit Orkney

Thu, 23 Feb 2012 12:52:28 GMT

A Scottish Government team will be holding a public meeting in Orkney at the Stromness Academy on March 12 to gather feedback for a nation-wide study of remote and rural education.

KGS pupils take sneak peek at new school

Mon, 20 Feb 2012 14:49:33 GMT

A group of KGS pupils have taken a close up look at their new school under construction.

Find out what’s on for youth in Orkney

Fri, 17 Feb 2012 12:20:51 GMT

A special event in the Kirkwall Town Hall on Saturday February 25 will showcase activities and services available for young people in Orkney.

Council says proposed transmission charges will disadvantage islands

Fri, 17 Feb 2012 12:12:15 GMT

Proposed transmission charges outlined by Ofgem will disadvantage the UK’s islands and Orkney’s renewables future, says OIC in its response to a consultation by the national energy regulator.

OIC digs deep for greener schools

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 16:59:47 GMT

Four drilling rigs are in the county to drill boreholes for the ground source heating system at each of the new schools being built as part of Orkney Islands Council’s Schools Investment Programme (SIP).

OIC to pilot alternate weekly collection of waste and recycling

Tue, 14 Feb 2012 12:00:00 GMT

A selection of households in Orkney are set to help pilot the Council’s plans for alternate weekly collections – rubbish collected one week, recyclables the next.

Exhibition at the Orkney Museum - Recent Drawings by Rik Hammond

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 15:39:16 GMT

Recent Drawings by Rik Hammond is a collection of abstract drawings that challenge the viewer to use their own imagination to interpret the images on display.

OIC gives green light for Stromness Pierhead project

Fri, 10 Feb 2012 13:01:51 GMT

Orkney Islands Council has agreed to award a contract for the work involved in the Stromness Pierhead Regeneration Project.

Orkney householders praised for radon response rate

Fri, 10 Feb 2012 08:56:46 GMT

Orkney householders were amongst the most responsive in Scotland following a recent radon testing campaign run in the county by the Health Protection Agency (HPA).

OIC sets budget for year ahead

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 12:03:51 GMT

Orkney Islands Council today (Thursday 9 February) agreed a £1.9 million savings target for the next financial year – considerably less than the £4 million originally anticipated.

Postal vote reminder for isles

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 09:23:27 GMT

The Electoral Registration Officer in Orkney is urging voters in the isles who have not returned their postal vote application forms issued in mid December to do so as soon as possible.

Have your say on private and isles housing strategies

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 09:04:04 GMT

Orkney Islands Council is looking for input from the public on two important local housing issues.

Big Beams go up at new Picky Pool

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 15:47:00 GMT

Huge beams were lowered into place this week at the new pool being constructed as part of Orkney Islands Council's Schools Investment Programme.

Orkney public invited to comment on proposed changes to the maternity service in Grampian

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 14:29:16 GMT

The Orkney Public Partnership Forum is linking with NHS Grampian as part of the Board’s formal consultation on proposed changes to the maternity service in Grampian.

Stromness Customer Services relocating on February 15

Mon, 06 Feb 2012 09:50:53 GMT

Orkney Islands Council’s Stromness Customer Services Office (formerly known as the Stromness Cash Office) will be moving from the Old Ferry Terminal Building, Ferry Road, Stromness to the Northlink Terminal Building, Stromness, KW16 3BH on Wednesday 15 February 2012.

New planning regulations for home improvements

Mon, 06 Feb 2012 09:44:24 GMT

From Monday February 6 the rules change over what can be done to alter houses and flats without needing planning permission.

Annual Report on Child Protection Work in Orkney

Mon, 06 Feb 2012 09:38:35 GMT

The 2010-11 Annual Report of the Orkney Child Protection Committee is now available on the Committee’s website, available through the Orkney Islands Council homepage.

Partnership raises postal concerns

Thu, 02 Feb 2012 12:42:17 GMT

Orkney Community Planning Partnership has expressed opposition to proposals to give the Royal Mail greater freedom to set prices for postal deliveries.

Don't lose your right to vote

Thu, 02 Feb 2012 12:40:30 GMT

Orkney voters are being urged to check they are registered to vote ahead of the council elections across Scotland on May 3.

Follow the tweets as Miss Marple tackles murder on Twitter

Thu, 02 Feb 2012 09:57:15 GMT

Agatha Christie’s murder-mystery, The Body in the Library, will find a new audience this week when the story is told – a tiny chunk at a time – through Twitter.

Committee recommends much reduced savings target for 2012-13

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 12:30:44 GMT

Orkney Islands Council’s Policy and Resources Committee has agreed to recommend a £1.9 million savings target for the next financial year – considerably less than the £4 million originally anticipated.

Cruise bookings … a century and counting

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 08:09:18 GMT

The number of cruise liners set to visit Orkney over the next two seasons has already topped 100.

Help shape the future of independent advocacy in Orkney

Mon, 30 Jan 2012 11:03:44 GMT

People with an interest in independent advocacy are being urged to help shape the future of the service in Orkney over the next three years.

Leader continues to deliver for local projects

Thu, 26 Jan 2012 10:46:56 GMT

Three more local projects have been granted support from the latest round of LEADER funding.

Orkney’s rich cultural life celebrated in new study

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 10:18:57 GMT

A report highlighting the exceptional quality of cultural life in Orkney is to be shared with communities across Scotland delivering arts and heritage activities.

Consultation on KGS school week

Fri, 20 Jan 2012 10:03:45 GMT

A consultation starts today on plans to change the weekly timetable at Kirkwall Grammar School.

Is your car seat fitted properly?

Fri, 20 Jan 2012 08:37:40 GMT

Orkney Islands Council is urging parents to carry out checks on their child’s car seat after a study found the majority of seats were incorrectly fitted.

All in a spin… in Flotta

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 10:13:33 GMT

Around a dozen people from Flotta are keeping local traditions alive by learning the skills involved in spinning, knitting and dying their own textiles.

OIC welcomes ferries refit decision

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 10:09:27 GMT

Orkney Islands Council has welcomed an announcement by the Government agency Transport Scotland on refit arrangements during NorthLink Ferries’ refit period.

Orkney bids sought for CashBack projects

Fri, 13 Jan 2012 09:56:33 GMT

An innovative scheme that uses money recovered from criminals to help finance projects for young people is looking for applications for funding from Orkney.

Ferries – Convener welcomes SIC decision

Fri, 13 Jan 2012 09:46:44 GMT

The Convener of Orkney Islands Council has welcomed a decision by Shetland Islands Council not to make any contribution towards the costs of chartering the CalMac ferry Hebridean Isles to cover the Pentland Firth route while the NorthLink ferry Hamnavoe is in dry dock.

Public warned again over Windows online support scam

Wed, 11 Jan 2012 08:51:04 GMT

Orkney Islands Council’s Trading Standards Service is warning consumers that a scam involving home computers is targeting Orkney residents once again, with over 10 reports received by the team in the last two days.

Ferries – OIC and SIC make joint call to Government

Wed, 11 Jan 2012 08:51:04 GMT

Orkney Islands Council and Shetland Islands Council have made a joint call to the Scottish Government to provide a replacement vessel which fully meets the requirements of both communities during NorthLink’s dry dock period.

Open Day for new Council homes in Holm

Wed, 11 Jan 2012 08:48:04 GMT

Twelve new Council homes in St Mary’s will be on show at an Open Day on Friday January 13 from 11:30am to 2.30pm.

Beware bogus Office of Fair Trading bank refund offer

Mon, 09 Jan 2012 09:42:22 GMT

Orkney Islands Council’s Trading Standards team is warning the public to be on their guard against the latest scam involving phone calls from individuals claiming to be from the Office of Fair Trading in London.

Protecting adults from harm

Mon, 09 Jan 2012 09:38:48 GMT

A new leaflet aimed at helping to protect adults from abuse is published this week.

Tribute to a passionate advocate for Orkney

Fri, 06 Jan 2012 09:58:51 GMT

Tributes have been paid following the death of the Stromness and South Isles Councillor John Eccles.

Change Fund helps care staff gear up for re-ablement

Fri, 06 Jan 2012 09:18:38 GMT

Care staff with a variety of skills from across Orkney have been training for a new way of caring for people in the community.

Open Day for new Council homes in Holm

Fri, 23 Dec 2011 16:03:56 GMT

Twelve new Council homes in St Mary’s will be on show at an Open Day on January 13 from 11:30am to 2.30pm.

OIC calls for recognition of islands’ green potential in grid charging review

Fri, 23 Dec 2011 14:20:17 GMT

OIC has called for recognition of the huge potential in Scotland’s island communities to generate green energy on behalf of the UK - in response to grid charging proposals published by Ofgem.

Don't fall for make-believe Madrid Mugging pleas for money

Fri, 23 Dec 2011 12:56:41 GMT

Orkney Islands Council’s Trading Standards Service is repeating it’s warning to members of the public not to fall for emails claiming to be from Orkney residents alleging they have been mugged in Madrid, left without money or passports, and desperate for financial assistance to get home.

Flow to host visit by specialised oil ship

Fri, 23 Dec 2011 09:01:08 GMT

A floating production, storage and offloading (FPSO) vessel is due to arrive in Orkney waters between Christmas and New Year.

Library young writers group to publish poetry

Thu, 22 Dec 2011 09:03:00 GMT

A group of young writers brought together with help from local authors, the Orkney Library and Archive and funds from Awards For All will have the chance to put together an anthology of their work in 2012.

Council sells Ayre Mills property

Tue, 20 Dec 2011 14:42:59 GMT

Orkney Islands Council has sold its property at Ayre Mills.

Orkney Community Plan approved

Tue, 20 Dec 2011 14:27:53 GMT

The Orkney Community Plan was approved by the Orkney Community Planning Partnership at a recent meeting.

Orkney Community Plan approved

Tue, 20 Dec 2011 14:27:53 GMT

The Orkney Community Plan was approved by the Orkney Community Planning Partnership at a recent meeting.

Europe awards £1.8m for Stromness marine renewables service base

Tue, 20 Dec 2011 12:33:53 GMT

A new £5.5m marine renewables support base in Stromness has moved a step closer following confirmation today that Orkney Islands Council has been granted £1.815m towards the project from the European Regional Development Fund.

Stromness pitch open in New Year

Mon, 19 Dec 2011 14:37:54 GMT

The new synthetic grass pitch in Stromness is undergoing final touches this week and will be open for bookings from January 5.

Cost cutting project brightens up Cathedral

Mon, 19 Dec 2011 14:32:47 GMT

A lighting upgrade in the St Magnus Cathedral to help cut costs has shed new light on the beauty of the building.

Looking for funding?

Thu, 15 Dec 2011 14:43:03 GMT

Community groups and small businesses in the county can browse a huge range of funding opportunities through Orkney Islands Council's website.

Benefits survey

Tue, 13 Dec 2011 10:53:49 GMT

Orkney Islands Council is seeking feedback on its Housing and Council Tax Benefit Service.

Telecare consultation - final reminder

Tue, 13 Dec 2011 10:47:19 GMT

Orkney Islands Council is reminding anyone with an interest in telecare that the consultation into the possible introduction of charges for telecare services including Community Care Alarms will end on January 4.

Firms to be asked about future prospects

Mon, 12 Dec 2011 15:11:50 GMT

A major survey of Orkney businesses is to take place in the New Year.

Blue Badge changes

Mon, 12 Dec 2011 15:04:13 GMT

Blue badge holders will in the next week receive a letter advising them of changes to the Blue Badge scheme for disabled parking in the UK.

Bad weather update - 9 December

Fri, 09 Dec 2011 13:25:50 GMT

The Orkney Local Emergency Coordination Group has issued updates and safety reminders as bad weather continues on December 9 in Orkney:

Local Government Settlement - OIC response

Fri, 09 Dec 2011 12:08:00 GMT

Finance Secretary John Swinney has announced that Orkney Islands Council’s “settlement” – the amount it will receive in grant from the Scottish Government for 2012-13 – will be £71.5 million.

Chamber debate brings local democracy to life for young people

Thu, 08 Dec 2011 16:45:16 GMT

More than 20 young people aged between 14 and 25 from across Orkney will take part in a debate in the Council Chamber on December 15.

Bad weather reminders

Thu, 08 Dec 2011 16:34:25 GMT

A message from the Orkney Local Emergency Coordination Group with some bad weather reminders as storms move up from Central Scotland tonight (December 8 2011)

Ferry tariff consultation extended

Thu, 08 Dec 2011 12:56:14 GMT

Due to recent bad weather and resulting postponed public meetings, OIC’s Orkney Ferries Tariff Review consultation has been extended and will now end on January 4 2012 at 5pm.

New figures show local class sizes among the best in Scotland

Wed, 07 Dec 2011 16:10:01 GMT

Class sizes at Orkney’s primary schools remain amongst the smallest in Scotland – as are pupil-teacher ratios across all of the islands’ schools.

Nominations open for Scottish Education Awards 2011

Mon, 05 Dec 2011 13:00:34 GMT

Local people across Orkney are being called upon to help find the area’s brightest education stars who are worthy of recognition at the Scottish Education Awards 2012.

Have your say on housing consultations

Mon, 05 Dec 2011 12:43:11 GMT

OIC’s housing team is reminding the public that several housing consultations will close shortly.

OIC shortlisted for investment awards

Mon, 05 Dec 2011 12:41:18 GMT

Orkney Islands Council has been shortlisted for the Best Return on Equities category at LGC Investment Awards 2011, for the second year running.

Orkney Library takes two top twitter awards

Fri, 02 Dec 2011 16:22:59 GMT

Orkney Library and Archive has won two Goldentwit awards for their work using Twitter to engage with and inform the public.

New Executive Director appointed

Thu, 01 Dec 2011 14:43:00 GMT

Orkney Islands Council has appointed a new Executive Director for Development and Infrastructure. A Special Meeting of the Full Council selected Gavin Barr – currently OIC’s Planning Manager (Development Planning and Regeneration) - for the post.

Festive season ID card reminder

Thu, 01 Dec 2011 09:18:01 GMT

With the Christmas party season fast approaching, young festive partygoers are reminded to make sure they carry proof-of-age identification with them - or they may find that they are unable to buy a drink.

Economic review of Orkney published

Thu, 01 Dec 2011 09:00:24 GMT

Facts and figures about Orkney’s economy are now available in the latest Economic Review published by Orkney Islands Council’s Economic Development team.

Ferry tariff consultation ends soon

Thu, 01 Dec 2011 08:55:40 GMT

Orkney Islands Council’s consultation into the way that internal ferry services are charged for across the county will close on December 16.

Orkney Islands Council calls for fairness in RET scheme

Tue, 29 Nov 2011 16:16:36 GMT

Orkney Islands Council has called for fairness, following the announcement from the Scottish Government that the Road Equivalent Tariff pilot in the Western Isles is set to become a permanent arrangement.

Getting closer to mystery mural painter AR Woods

Tue, 29 Nov 2011 12:50:33 GMT

An international collaboration has brought another oil painting by AR Woods to Orkney.

Ninety years of Royal British Legion showcased at Orkney Museum

Tue, 29 Nov 2011 12:47:48 GMT

A new exhibition showcasing 90 years of the Royal British Legion opens this Saturday (December 3) at the Orkney Museum.

Free parking hours for festive shoppers

Mon, 28 Nov 2011 12:39:43 GMT

Parking will be free in all pay and display car parks in both Kirkwall and Stromness from 1pm each afternoon in the fortnight leading up to Christmas, to encourage festive shoppers to buy locally.

Special 'Nord Lys' concert to celebrate Orkney Norway links

Fri, 25 Nov 2011 08:52:16 GMT

A special concert arranged by Orkney Islands Council for December 4 at 6pm in the St Magnus Cathedral will feature the best of local and Norwegian talent.
The Nord Lys, or ‘Northern Lights’ concert will include a selection of pieces and recitals from:

New George Mackay Brown papers arrive at Orkney Library and Archive

Fri, 25 Nov 2011 08:49:21 GMT

The Orkney Library & Archive has received new George Mackay Brown papers – including some rare and unpublished work - on permanent loan from Archie and Elizabeth Bevan in Stromness.

Could-be Councillors visit the Council Chamber

Fri, 25 Nov 2011 08:44:14 GMT

Thirteen people with an interest in the role of elected members in Orkney debated the finer points of planning and public holidays in a mock committee in the Council Chamber on Tuesday (November 22).

OIC Museums lead the way in new accreditation scheme

Thu, 24 Nov 2011 10:25:56 GMT

Orkney Islands Council’s Arts, Museums and Heritage service is one of just four organisations in the UK to have passed the Arts Council of England’s new accreditation scheme for museums.

Appeal for unused community equipment

Thu, 24 Nov 2011 10:20:21 GMT

Do you have any Community equipment loaned from the Council or NHS - such as walking aids, chair raisers, and listening aids - that you no longer need?

Picky Centre apprentices gain construction skills

Thu, 24 Nov 2011 10:08:31 GMT

Two local young people have been busy gaining construction skills as new apprentices on Orkney Islands Council’s £57m Schools Investment Programme with project contractors Morrison Construction.

Have your say on mental health strategy for Scotland

Wed, 23 Nov 2011 09:02:38 GMT

The Public Partnership Forum in Orkney is urging members of the public and user groups in the county to feedback their views on the Government's new mental health strategy for Scotland.

Ness Battery - present, past and future

Tue, 22 Nov 2011 11:11:57 GMT

Ness Battery will be centre stage at a Public Talk on Thursday 8 December when Geoffrey Stell, internationally acclaimed military and architectural historian, is speaking on Ness Battery: Defending Hoy Sound in Two World Wars.

Healthy Living Centres race to Lapland

Tue, 22 Nov 2011 11:07:15 GMT

Orkney Islands Council’s Healthy Living Centres are racing to Lapland in the lead up to Christmas, and you can help get your local Centre over the finish line first.