Scolpaig: Spaceport plans in Outer Hebrides to continue following ministers' decision

The spaceport in Scotland could be ready to launch satellites by early 2025, plans suggest

Controversial plans to build a spaceport on North Uist will continue after the Scottish Government decided there is no need to examine the proposals further.

Comhairle nan Eilean Siar – the Western Isles Council – has proposed plans to build the facility at Scolpaig. The hub will be capable of vertical launching sub-orbital rockets, of which there is expected to be ten a year.

The planning application board unanimously granted permission a month ago before going to the Scottish Government for further scrutiny. It prompted a huge backlash from the local community and visitors to the island who demanded ministers “call in” the plans.

An artist's impression of an aerial view of Spaceport 1(pic: Comhairle nan Eilean Siar)

The application received some 244 objections, plus a petition with almost 1,000 signatures. Only six responses were in favour.

Concerns raised by objectors include the spaceport having a negative effect on the environment, landscape and tourism. But on Tuesday, ministers confirmed the council could continue with the process without further scrutiny needed.

A spokesman for the council said: "Prospective launch companies are already looking at working with local businesses and establishing an on-island presence to support launches in future years.

"Even at this early stage, it is acknowledged by the launch industry that Spaceport 1 – and the Outer Hebrides – has a critical role to play in the expansion of the Scottish and UK space sectors."

A Scottish Government spokesperson said ministers had “carefully considered the spaceport proposal at Scolpaig and have concluded there were no issues that warranted their involvement in this planning application”, adding: “It has been cleared back to Western Isles Council for future handling.”

The new facility is one of several spaceports under construction in Scotland, including one in Shetland and Sutherland in the Highlands.