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View ServicePlanning Application submitted for Space Hub Sutherland
The planning application for the new Space Hub Sutherland at A'Mhoine in Sutherland was submitted by Highlands and Islands Enterprise on 7th February 2020.
If approved, the site will be the UK's first vertical launch facility and will facilitate the launch of vehicles carrying commercial satellites for earth observation, with 12 launches expected per year when fully operational.
Designed by Norr Architects, the facility includes a launch operation and control centre, launch site integration facility, single launch pad, antenna park and associated site infrastructure.
"It is a privilege to be part of the team which aims to deliver the first vertical launch facility for Scotland and the UK"Stuart Fyvie, G&T Partner
The project has been underway since 2018, with G&T appointed in 2019 to manage the project on behalf of HIE. This has included a variety of specialist areas including planning, ecological, environmental, airspace change and marine licensing services.
Stuart Fyvie, G&T partner and project manager commented, "As a keen advocate and life-long follower of space exploration, more specifically private commercial spaceflight, it is a privilege to be part of the team which aims to deliver the first vertical launch facility for Scotland and the UK."
Extensive public consultation was carried out during preparation for the application, and a series of detailed specialist surveys have guided plans to manage and minimise any impact on the land and marine environment.
"Beyond the experience and knowledge that Gardiner & Theobald has brought to our project, they quickly became valued members of the Space Hub Sutherland team"David Howie, HIE Programme Head
David Howie, HIE programme head said, "Beyond the experience and knowledge that Gardiner & Theobald has brought to our project, they quickly became valued members of the Space Hub Sutherland team. Their contributions over the past year or so have been invaluable in helping us achieve the significant milestone of a planning application for this highly complex and innovative development."
Image: © Norr Architects/HIE