A study to examine the effects of establishing a fixed link between the two most northerly islands in Scotland has been commissioned by Shetland Enterprise.

It will investigate any social and economic benefits which a link between Yell and Unst may create for communities and businesses on both islands.

Consultants EKOS Ltd will speak to individuals, businesses and community groups over the next two weeks to gauge what benefits the project could bring. The study will seek to identify the impacts on various activities from education to tourism as well as the potential for financial savings, improved business competitiveness and increased freight levels.

The study does not consider what type of fixed-link might be involved - this would form the next stage of the investigation - depending on the outcome of this current benefits appraisal.

The provision of such a link would allow Unst and Yell to share their labour pool and other resources. Establishing a fixed link may also increase the number of business and job opportunities available to both island communities and would greatly increase the accessibility of Unst from the Shetland mainland.

The decision to commission the report was taken as a result of the economic and social problems both islands have experienced in recent years. Unst in particular is suffering badly following the RAF's decision last year to significantly scale down its presence on the island. This is expected to create a knock-on effect on the local economy through reduced spending in local shops and businesses, and any population decline may threaten the viability of certain services.

Chief executive at Shetland Enterprise David Finch said: "Meetings between the board and senior members of staff at Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) were held recently on Unst with members of the Unst Partnership - a group formed by Shetland Islands Council, and the local community council. Shetland Enterprise have been working with the partnership to take forward a strategic framework for regeneration on the island.

"This latest study has come out of these discussions and we look forward to the findings which will contribute to the debate about whether or not to establish the link between Yell and Unst. Understandably there will be some speculation at this stage about what kind of fixed-link could be used but apart from the obvious bridge or tunnel options, it is too early to comment. These aspects will be the subject of further appraisal and discussion at a later date depending on the outcome of this latest study."