The Islands of Unst, Yell and Fetlar all suffer from falling populations and are economically at the edge. Each has unique characteristics and infrastructure, as well as problems, not always shared by their neighbours.

Early on in the Initiative at the Edge process an announcement that the MOD was withdrawing its operations from RAF Saxa Vord in Unst made an already fragile situation immeasurably worse.

However Initiative at the Edge North Isles is determined progress can be made by Fetlar, Unst and Yell working collectively on common development issues.

Long term aspirations of Initiative at the Edge North Isles.

To sustain and increase the North Isles population levels
To broaden the economic base
To create new employment opportunities and businesses
To maintain high quality, locally accessible services
To enable young people to return to, and remain in, the North Isles
To enhance the visitor experience of the three Islands
To improve telecommunications
To help develop a North Isles identity