Sutherland Spaceport Proposed Byelaws

17th May 2023

The Highland Council will promote, on behalf of Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE), proposed byelaws to restrict public access rights during launches at the Sutherland SpacePort by Tongue.

The proposed byelaws will be made available for public inspection and a 12-week public consultation will take place with key stakeholders.

In order to safely undertake a launch, an area of land larger than the Launch Pad Complex is required to be clear of the general public.

The Land Reform (Scotland) Act 2003 allows for the Council to make byelaws under certain provisions which are valid for the management of the public during launch events. It is proposed that the access restriction will come into force at specific times detailed on notices on site and through digital and/or print media.

A report on the public consultation and proposed byelaws will be brought to a future meeting of The Highland Council for consideration.

The Sutherland Spaceport, the UK's first vertical launch site, is located on the A’ Mhòine peninsula on the north coast of Scotland.