COWI and Stantec Collaborate on Shetland’s Inter-Island Transport Connectivity Programme
Glasgow, UK 8 October 2024 – COWI, a leading international consulting group, in partnership with Stantec and Mott MacDonald is part of a consortium team undertaking a comprehensive study on the future transport needs of the Shetland archipelago. The project, commissioned by the Shetland Islands Council, aims to explore the potential benefits and challenges of different transport options, including both improved ferry services and fixed links. The outcome of the study will be a comprehensive network strategy for the next 30 years.
COWI brings its extensive experience in fixed link projects to the collaboration, having successfully delivered numerous bridge and tunnel designs worldwide. Stantec, with its business case expertise and Mott MacDonald with their marine civil engineering expertise, complement COWI’s capabilities, creating a strong partnership poised to deliver innovative solutions that support island communities.
The collaboration between COWI, Stantec and Mott MacDonald will involve an in-depth study that sets out the comparative merits of different ferry and fixed link options for serving island communities. COWI’s role is specifically focused on the fixed link element, and encompasses geological assessments, environmental impact considerations, engineering challenges, and economic analyses. The aim of COWI’s element of the study is to provide Shetland Islands Council with a comprehensive understanding of the technical and financial implications of establishing fixed links, which can be fed into the wider options appraisal within the business case.
Andy Sloan, Managing Director, COWI in the UK, said: “We are delighted to partner with Stantec and Mott MacDonald on this important project. Our combined expertise and global experience will enable us to deliver a thorough analysis of the feasibility and potential benefits of fixed connections in Shetland. We are committed to supporting Shetland Islands Council in their vision for enhanced connectivity and sustainable development.”
For island communities across Shetland, the future of connectivity is a fundamental concern”, added Stephen Canning, Director of Transport Planning at Stantec. “The ability to access employment, services, and leisure opportunities on Shetland Mainland; move high value goods; and facilitate travel to and service delivery in the islands requires a high-quality and resilient inter-island transport network.
“We are delighted to have been appointed by Shetland Islands Council, alongside our long-term partners COWI and Mott MacDonald to deliver the Shetland Inter-Island Connectivity Study. By working closely with island residents and other stakeholders, we will develop a strategy that, through promoting greater connectivity, will support improved wellbeing, resilience, and prosperity.” Upon completion, the findings and recommendations of the detailed study will provide Shetland Islands Council with vital information to guide future infrastructure investments and establish a robust transportation network.
About COWI
Together with customers, partners and colleagues, we shape a future where people and societies grow and flourish. We do that by co-creating sustainable and beautiful solutions that improve the quality of life for people today and many generations ahead. Our starting point is gaining a deep understanding of our customers, their aspirations and concerns. This is what sets us apart and how we deliver long-term value. Primarily located in Scandinavia, the UK, North America and India, we currently number 6,900 people, who offer our expertise in engineering, architecture, energy and environment.
About Stantec
Stantec empowers clients, people, and communities to rise to the world’s greatest challenges at a time when the world faces more unprecedented concerns than ever before. We are a global leader in sustainable engineering, architecture, and environmental consulting. Our professionals deliver the expertise, technology, and innovation communities need to manage aging infrastructure, demographic and population changes, the energy transition, and more.
Today’s communities transcend geographic borders. At Stantec, community means everyone with an interest in the work that we do—from our project teams and industry colleagues to our clients and the people our work impacts. The diverse perspectives of our partners and interested parties drive us to think beyond what’s previously been done on critical issues like climate change, digital transformation, and future-proofing our cities and infrastructure.
We are designers, engineers, scientists, project managers, and strategic advisors. We innovate at the intersection of community, creativity, and client relationships to advance communities everywhere, so that together we can redefine what’s possible. Stantec trades on the TSX and the NYSE under the symbol STN. Visit us at stantec.com or find us on social media.
