Chamber chief says connectivity is key to economic growth
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Far north business leader Trudy Morris emphasised that connectivity is a major factor in achieving economic growth as she expressed relief and delight at the Scottish Government's funding commitment to the Wick/Aberdeen air link.
Ms Morris is chief executive of Caithness Chamber of Commerce, which was at the forefront of lobbying and campaigning to safeguard what it calls a "lifeline" service. The chamber, with funding from Dounreay, had developed the original business case for the public service obligation (PSO) from Wick John O’Groats Airport.
Transport Scotland announced on Wednesday that funding will continue in 2024/25.
Ms Morris said: “Connectivity is a major factor in securing economic growth, attracting new opportunities, employment and sustaining flourishing communities for our region, and is indeed a vital component in addressing depopulation and retaining future generations.
“Our region boasts one of the most diverse economies in Scotland, and the north Highlands play a crucial role in Scotland's transition to renewable energy, particularly with the development of national assets such as space, offshore wind and essential electricity transmission infrastructure. The importance of transport connectivity cannot be overstated in harnessing and enabling these transformative opportunities for our region and communities.
“Air services at Wick John O’Groats Airport are an essential part of our region’s transport ecosystem, physically connecting our businesses and communities to important markets, opportunities and essential healthcare and travel needs.
“We fully appreciate the challenging budgetary constraints faced by the Scottish Government and we are delighted and relieved by the announcement.
“The chamber, in partnership with local stakeholders, is united in our vision and commitment to fostering growth and prosperity in our region. We will continue to work together to build upon opportunities for the airport and advocate for the voice of the north Highland businesses and communities.”
Scheduled air services restarted on April 11, 2022, with the first Wick/Aberdeen flight since before the pandemic. The chamber has continued to play a key role in efforts to safeguard, develop and grow the service.
Representatives of Caithness Chamber of Commerce met with Scotland's transport secretary Fiona Hyslop last month to argue that investment in transport infrastructure is vital for the economic development and regeneration of the far north.
When the Aberdeen route was reinstated in 2022, Ms Morris – who was on the first flight leaving Wick – emphasised that the subsidised service operated by Eastern Airways compared favourably with other forms of transport in terms of price as well as convenience.
She said at the time: "We would encourage everyone to make use of these flights – this is a service designed for everyone and offers great options for both business and leisure travel."
