Wishart promotes SaxaVord importance

Scottish Liberal Democrat and Shetland MSP Beatrice Wishart has promoted Shetland’s SaxaVord spaceport as Scotland’s business minister at Space-Comm Expo in Glasgow announces a refresh of the Scottish Government’s space strategy updating the sector’s priorities and standards. The event is the largest of its kind ever in Scotland, reflecting Scotland’s growing place in the global space economy.

Ms Wishart attended the Scottish Parliament’s Cross Party Group (CPG) on Space earlier in the week where Debbie Strang, Deputy CEO of SaxaVord Spaceport, gave a presentation on spaceport developments including launch and satellite-support services. Ms Wishart is one of the Deputy Conveners of the CPG.

Ms Wishart said:

“I welcome the Scottish Government’s announcement that the space strategy will be refreshed. Shetland’s spaceport developed though the vision of co-founders Scott Hammond, Debbie Strang and the late Frank Strang and their determination to see the project take off.

“The potential of Shetland’s contribution to the space sector is significant and our geographic location puts us in a prime spot for low orbital launches, crucial for satellite technology.

“Growing Scotland’s space sector also requires real public investment in infrastructure. Tunnels and full digital connectivity in Shetland would be a boon to the space sector and help attract more investment into the islands.”