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The case to build the UK’s first spaceport in the Hebrides is “compelling”, says development agency, HIE.

 

 

 

Stornoway is “ideal location” for spaceport  

8 March 2015

Stornoway is one of just five sites on a shortlist for a space travel launch site.

 

Catching the first wave of space travel promises a jobs and economic boost.

 

By 2030, the wider UK space industry estimated to be worth £40 billion and provide 100,000 jobs.

 

The Comhairle and development agency, HIE, are setting up a company to pursue the idea.

 

Rachel Mackenzie, HIE area manager in the Outer Hebrides, said: “Stornoway Airport is an ideal location for commercial spaceplane operations in the UK.

 

We have the environment, the people, and the ambition to realise the spaceport’s full potential to deliver economic benefits for the whole country as well as boosting local regeneration in the Hebrides.”

 

She added: “There is excellent connectivity with major Scottish cities and onward connections to London and mainland Europe. The area has existing skilled businesses willing and able to diversify and embrace opportunities for new technology. And there is further and higher education capacity to specialise in aeronautical/space requirements.

 

“With all these qualities and more, Stornoway presents a compelling case.”

 

Comhairle leader, Angus Campbell, said: “Stornoway Airport on behalf of the Outer Hebrides is very much in the running as the location for the site of the UK’s spaceport.

 

“Stornoway has a number of critical features that make it an ideal location. Amongst these are the vast expanse of the Atlantic ocean around us; we are only one hour away from a host of research and development facilities; we have the University of the Highlands and Islands on our doorstep; our northerly location gives more daylight for more of the year than any other location and we have extremely low air traffic levels.”