Latest News

Orkney Local Action Group (LAG), which brings together representatives from Orkney’s public, private and voluntary sectors, has appointed a new Chair. 

Amy Esslemont takes on the role with experience in development, she currently is the head of enterprise support for Highlands and Islands Enterprise and has extensive experience in local and community funding. 

Orkney Islands Council has shared their gratitude to staff, farmers, emergency services, community groups, volunteers and residents for their patience, resilience and assistance during the recent prolonged period of challenging winter. 

Orkney Islands Council Leader Heather Woodbridge has welcomed the Scottish budget announcements made by Cabinet Secretary for Finance Shona Robison in the Holyrood Chamber this afternoon – with early indications being that funding for Phase 1 for Orkney’s Ferry Replacement Programme has been secured.

The Westray bin collection has been cancelled today  (12 January) due to ferry disruption. An update will be provided as soon as possible on alternative arrangements

It's been a tricky week in Orkney, with heavy snow fall, drifting and difficult road conditions leading to service disruptions - including to waste and recycling collections and facilities. 

Following two days of weather disruption – and coming off the back of the Christmas break – huge efforts have gone in today into getting as many of Orkney’s schools, nurseries and education establishments open as possible for tomorrow.

Please see table for bus service updates:

The most popular names for Orkney’s newborn babies in 2025 have been shared by the Council’s Registrar Service.

A team of S3 students from Stromness Academy have secured a £3,000 grant for Soma’s Light through the Youth and Philanthropy Initiative (YPI).