The Press and Journal (Inverness, Highlands, and Islands)
Remote island community gets new airport terminal
One of Scotland's remotest airfields – serving an island with just over 70 people – has a new £275,000 terminal building to make passengers' wait for vital airlinks more comfortable.
North Ronaldsay in Orkney has celebrated the opening of its new airport building – which has a fire crew watch room, waiting room and a new garage for the fire vehicle that was purchased last year.
The building was built by a local firm to a design of architects from Orkney Islands Council.
North Isles Councillor Graham Sinclair, vice-chair of the development and infrastructure committee, said: “The council is committed to bringing more people to the North Isles, to encourage economic growth and ensure a sustainable future for the island's communities. The last few years have seen progression through a number of different projects and some of these include improving and modernising our airfields.
He added: “This is a fantastic addition to the island infrastructure of North Ronaldsay. It will make coming and going a more enjoyable experience – for locals and tourists alike – and hopefully attract more visitors to the island."
Billy Muir, chairman of the North Ronaldsay Community Council, said: “It is a brilliant newbuilding. It's got all of the modern facilities that we need including a separate watch room and waiting room which will make both passengers and employees more comfortable.
“This investment towards our community demonstrates the council's commitment to the island and we feel very fortunate to have such a nice airport facility."