Construction has begun on the initial phase of Spaceport 1, a sub-orbital launch site in the Outer Hebrides.

Local contractor, Macaulay Askernish Ltd, has been awarded a contract by Comhairle nan Eilean Siar to undertake enabling works at Scolpaig Farm in North Uist. The project, funded by a £947k investment from Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) and a £675k contribution from the Comhairle, will involve:

• Construction of new and upgraded access tracks

• Creation of parking facilities

• Upgrades to culverts at Loch Scolpaig

• Installation of fibre broadband

• A study into the conservation of cultural heritage assets on the site

The project is expected to be completed by Spring 2025, paving the way for a future spaceport operator to establish a presence at the site.

Councillor Paul Steele, Leader of Comhairle nan Eilean Siar said: "Breaking ground at Scolpaig is a considerable milestone for the Comhairle and for Spaceport 1. As the UK's only dedicated commercial sub-orbital launch site, Spaceport 1 will enable end-to-end science, technology and space systems development for the first time on British soil, closing a significant gap in the Space value chain.

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"The awarding of the construction contract to a local firm is welcome and will ensure localised benefit throughout this stage of the project. On completion, the spaceport will create employment opportunities in Uist and contribute to the Comhairle's wider strategic objectives for the islands."

Planning consent for the spaceport was granted in 2023, with approval to host up to 10 sub-orbital launches a year. A private sector operator is being procured by the Comhairle to develop the second phase of the project and run the spaceport facility. First lift-off is possible by Autumn 2025.

The project is one of three vertical launch sites that are planned or underway in the Highlands and Islands, along with SaxaVord Spaceport on Unst in Shetland, and Sutherland Spaceport in Melness.

Kathleen Stewart, HIE's Innse Gall area team leader, said: "We're pleased to be working with the Comhairle to progress the enabling works, which will support the establishment of a sub-orbital launch site. This is an innovative project that we expect to generate many social benefits and employment opportunities for the Outer Hebrides.

"This development in North Uist will play an important role in advancing the Scottish and UK space industries while creating high-quality jobs and helping to retain young people and attract more people to live on the islands."

Spaceport 1 forms part of the Scottish and UK Government funded Islands Growth Deal Programme– a ten-year scheme jointly funded by the three Island Councils and their partners from the public, academic, community and business sectors.