IN BRIEF

❚ Loganair is to begin operating Islay’s first scheduled airlink to Scotland’s capital. Passengers will initially be able to travel between Edinburgh and the Inner Hebrides four times per week, building up to a daily service by May, with a morning flight on Saturdays and lunchtime services on the other six days. Commencing on March 31, the flight will use a 33-seat Saab 340.

❚ A new restaurant opening at the end of the year on the west coast of the Isle of Lewis is set to create at least six new jobs. Construction of the Uig Sands Restaurant is under way and is being developed by owners of Uig Lodge in Timsgarry, Dickon and Elly Green. The project has secured £175,000 investment from Highlands and Islands Enterprise and £125,000 EU LEADER funding towards the £650,000 project.

❚ The Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) is to increase its vessel survey and medical examination fees for the first time in more than 10 years. Consideration was also given to the impact on small-scale operators. Only those 15 metres in length or over need to be surveyed.