The Local Government Information Unit (LGIU) has launched a novel partnership with Orkney, Shetland and Western Isles Councils and the University of the Highlands and Islands (UHI), focussed on identifying how Scottish Government’s Islands Plan can benefit island communities. 

The research will investigate the changing relationship between local authorities and governments in Holyrood and Westminster through the implementation of the plan, with a view to understanding how communities can be empowered and engaged in delivering better outcomes and individual wellbeing. 

The number of positive PCR COVID-19 cases amongst children and staff attending Papdale Primary School has risen to 21 (19 children and 2 staff) as of early afternoon on Thursday 4 November. 

NHS Orkney and the Council can confirm that the number of positive PCR COVID-19 cases amongst children attending Papdale Primary School has risen from five on Tuesday to 12 as of lunchtime on Wednesday 3 November.

A further 23 PCR tests have also been requested at this time.

The next couple of weeks will see works in Hoy and Mainland Orkney, with some bus services affected.

Work started this week on construction of a roadway in Kirkwall’s Bignold Park, a project being managed by Orkney Agricultural Society with financial support from Orkney Islands Council