In anticipation of the fourth UK Islands Forum, convened on the Isle of Anglesey in Wales today, the UK Government has unveiled additional funding to bolster island communities across the

nation.

Issued jointly by the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities and the Department for Transport on May 8, 2024, the announcement outlines a multi-faceted approach to enhance infrastructure and promote sustainable development in these unique locales.

A significant portion of the £4.6 million injection will be directed towards improving crucial transport links, with £1.6 million earmarked specifically for this purpose. Recognizing the pivotal role of robust transportation networks in stimulating local economies and fostering employment opportunities, Levelling Up Secretary Michael Gove unveiled this initiative during the gathering of island authorities at the fourth UK Islands Forum.

Dubbed the UK Islands Forum Connectivity Project, the endeavor aims to address the transportation challenges faced by island communities, which often rely heavily on air and ferry services due to their geographical isolation. By leveraging a collaborative effort between the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities and the Department for Transport, the project seeks to establish a comprehensive evidence base on island transport connectivity—a vital resource for informing future investment decisions and driving innovation.

In addition to the transport initiative, the UK Government has allocated £3 million to the European Marine Energy Centre (EMEC) based in Orkney, renowned as a global hub for wave and tidal energy testing. This funding, distributed over two years, underscores the government's commitment to advancing sustainable energy solutions and accelerating progress towards net-zero emissions targets.

Ministers, having visited EMEC's facilities during the inaugural Islands Forum in 2022, recognize the pivotal role played by the center in pioneering green technologies. The infusion of funds is expected to catalyze further innovation in renewable energy research and development, aligning with the government's agenda for levelling up and fostering green growth.

Speaking on the significance of these initiatives, Levelling Up Secretary Michael Gove emphasized the invaluable contributions of island communities to the UK and underscored the collaborative spirit driving these projects forward. He highlighted the UK Islands Forum as a platform for dialogue and action, empowering island leaders to address pressing issues and drive positive change.

The initiatives announced today build upon the momentum generated by past Islands Forums, where key themes such as transport connectivity were identified and prioritized. Through ongoing collaboration between governments and local stakeholders, the UK Government aims to empower island communities to chart a course towards a more prosperous and sustainable future.

Levelling Up Minister Jacob Young echoed these sentiments, praising the Islands Forum as a vital mechanism for amplifying the voices of island residents and ensuring their concerns are addressed in policy-making. As the forum unfolds in North Wales, stakeholders are afforded an opportunity to witness firsthand the tangible impact of levelling up investments and engage in constructive dialogue on the issues affecting their communities.

In addition to the recent funding announcements, the UK Government's commitment to levelling up island communities is underscored by a series of initiatives aimed at promoting economic development and enhancing quality of life across various island regions. These include targeted investments in infrastructure, town revitalization projects, and support for community-led initiatives, reflecting a comprehensive approach to fostering inclusive growth and prosperity. Photo by Jeff Buck, Wikimedia commons.