End of Term Highlights
2020
Covid 19 response
Our staff teams worked tirelessly to provide services in new ways as the pandemic hit. A humanitarian support hub was immediately set up offering assistance to the most vulnerable people in our community. The Council also established its own £5m fund to support local businesses. The Council was later recognised at the national LGC Awards for its work with local communities which was described as 'Local Government at its best'.
New Care Home
St Peter’s House residents moved to their new home at Hamnavoe House. The £9m 40-bed facility provides residents with the highest standards of care - securing future provision for older folk in need of residential accommodation in Orkney.
Construction was carried out by Orkney Builders (Contractors) Ltd. The two-year construction project was completed on time.
The home’s name was selected after a community effort. Local school children suggested names, Stromness Community Council whittled these down to a shortlist – and a public vote was held during the 'What's Next for Stromness' public consultation events in 2019.
Tug delivery
Two new tugs, Odin and Thor of Scapa, joined the harbours fleet. Within weeks of their arrival they took part in the coming together of two of the largest oil tankers in the world in Scapa Flow, both around 330m long and 60m beam.
The design and build contract for the 32-metre tugs was secured by Sanmar Shipyards of Turkey after a competitive tendering exercise. Sanmar operate a specialist tug building facility.
The tugs were named Odin of Scapa and Thor of Scapa after a public poll and each cost £6.1 million.
Growth deal
The Leaders of the three Scottish island Councils welcomed an award of £100 million in funding for Orkney, Shetland and the Western Isles. The Deal supports growth in key sectors of opportunity such as net-zero, tourism, food and drink, and creative industries- and followed extensive campaigning from elected members across the three Councils.
