Congratulations (James Whitworth)

I would like to congratulate The Shetland Times for its All Fools’ Day article on the Shetland Underground. It ticks all the boxes for councillor support.

Firstly, it is an absurdly expensive option, just like the Mareel and museum, where cheaper and more suitable options could have been met by improvement of existing facilities.

Secondly it provides the maximum opportunity for media coverage, photo opportunities and taxpayer funded freebie parties for councillors and senior management, along with the chance of lifelong plaques to commemorate openings.

The only problem is, now that it is published, councillors might take it seriously rather than provide needed improvements on already-existing transport facilities, such as a return bus service from Mid Yell to Burravoe for those attending the doctors’ or dental surgeries or collecting prescriptions.

There is a minibus that leaves Mid Yell at noon every day but it is not allowed to carry passengers as it takes meals on wheels, and social services and transport cannot co-operate to provide a service for those needing to go to the doctor or dentist.

James Whitworth
2 Old Schoolhouse,
Burravoe,
Yell.