Jamie Stone: 'Now we can argue the case for more Wick flights'
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Jamie Stone wants to see additional flights from Wick John O'Groats Airport following this week's positive news about Scottish Government funding.
Transport Scotland announced on Wednesday that its support for the Wick/Aberdeen public service obligation (PSO) will continue in 2024/25, ending a period of uncertainty about the prospects for the route.
Mr Stone, the Liberal Democrat MP for Caithness, Sutherland and Easter Ross, described the airport as crucial to the local economy.
"This good news just goes to show that intense lobbying pays off," he said. "Well done Caithness of Chamber of Commerce, Focus North and all others who have been calling for this.
"Now we can build on the PSO and argue the case for still more flights in and out of Wick.
"The future of Wick John O'Groats Airport is utterly crucial to the economy for the far north. As we strive to get new high-quality jobs with the Sutherland Spaceport and the Cromarty Firth Green Freeport, our transport links are vital."
Councillor Jan McEwan, who represents Wick and East Caithness on Highland Council and is the town's provost, said: "This is excellent news and I'm sure passenger numbers will continue to increase to ensure the security of this service.
"It is just a pity the announcement wasn’t made sooner, as this would have alleviated the uncertainty everyone has had.
"I hope that Wick airport now goes from strength to strength and even opens up other destinations, which would offer even more potential and would have a very positive impact on the Caithness economy."
Highlands and Islands Labour MSP Rhoda Grant said: “This is fantastic news and I am thrilled that this fundamental transport link will continue to receive PSO funding.
“This is a vital service for health provision, business provision and tourism and I welcome this commitment to continue funding it for a further year. It will add security and benefits to the fragility of Caithness transport links – which can often be closed off in winter months and in adverse weather.
“This is a rare campaign that has seen support from almost all corners of the political spectrum and across all sectors in the community. That is credit to the service and lifeline provision it provides to the Caithness region.”
