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Last week Orkney Islands Council received notification from the Scottish Government, as part of the Scottish Budget 2026/27, that Ministers will provide the budget required to allow the Council to complete Phase 1 of the Ferry Replacement Programme.

Orkney Islands Council is to get underway with the phased introduction of the new 20mph speed limit across Orkney.  

Cllr Heather Woodbridge, Leader of Orkney Islands Council, has written to Douglas Alexander, the Secretary of State for Scotland, urging the UK Government to provide Local Growth Fund support for the islands and review the methodology used for its allocation. This follows the Council learning it received no funding in the funding announcement on 8 January 2026, meaning the next opportunity to apply will not come for another three years.

The Orkney Islands Area Licensing Board has received an application for occasional licence from Norman Rendall for Orkney Theatre.

The Orkney Islands Area Licensing Board has received an application for occasional licence from Norman Rendall for Orkney Theatre.

A summary of road delays and closures due to road and building/utility works and events for the week starting Monday 19/01/2026.

Work is underway to install new and replacement bus shelters across Orkney, thanks to external grant funding from the Scottish Government.

Orkney Local Action Group (LAG), which brings together representatives from Orkney’s public, private and voluntary sectors, has appointed a new Chair. 

Amy Esslemont takes on the role with experience in development, she currently is the head of enterprise support for Highlands and Islands Enterprise and has extensive experience in local and community funding. 

Orkney Islands Council has shared their gratitude to staff, farmers, emergency services, community groups, volunteers and residents for their patience, resilience and assistance during the recent prolonged period of challenging winter. 

Orkney Islands Council Leader Heather Woodbridge has welcomed the Scottish budget announcements made by Cabinet Secretary for Finance Shona Robison in the Holyrood Chamber this afternoon – with early indications being that funding for Phase 1 for Orkney’s Ferry Replacement Programme has been secured.