Say NO to Sub-Orbital Vertical Launch Spaceport Facility adjacent to pristine Hebridean National Scenic Area
Join us in fighting to protect this area of exceptional natural beauty and biodiversity from the inappropriate development of a commercial spaceport. Scolpaig is one of the wonders of the Western Isles, largely within the National Scenic Area, adjacent to a world renowned RSPB reserve and the closest viewpoint to the dual World Heritage Site of St Kilda - it should not be lost to irreversible industrialisation.
Comhairle nan Eilean Siar (Western Isles Council) originally submitted a proposal (Ref. No. 19/00311/PPD) to Develop Phase 1 Spaceport infrastructure, to allow the launch of sounding rockets, comprising launch pad, locations for tracking radar pads, provision of vehicular access and parking, and to widen existing access track from the A865.
This has been replaced by a new application (Ref. No. 21/00646/PPD) for a Sub-orbital Vertical Launch Spaceport Facility, submitted on 11th Feb 2022. This is in effect a refinement of the original Phase 1 application.
The Council have advised that all previous objections will not be carried forward, and that should anyone wish to make representations in respect of the new application they will need to do so by the 21st March 2022.
Over 200 written objections have already been submitted to the council objecting to the Spaceport at Scolpaig!
Should anyone still wish to object, it should be possible (the 'competent body' are required to consider all comments) - so please DO NOT stop OBJECTING.
“ The public will not be encouraged to observe launches and dedicated traffic
management measures will ensure a continual flow of traffic to remove opportunities
to park in close vicinity to the site during the launch event. Observations of the launch
will be by invitation only and only authorised personnel will be allowed to enter the
site “
The recent edition of ‘The Planner’ (the Business Magazine for Planning
Professionals) mentions Spaceport 1 at Scolpaig as a site that ‘is suitably remote
for regular operations’ and as one that is ‘readily accessible’. It lists the project
as if it had already been approved.
CLICK HERE - TO SIGN THE PETITION
click here for Sample Letters of Objection
For full information regarding the planning application click the link below :