SPACEPORT officials have told islanders living nearby they will need to apply for “local residents passes” to access their homes during rocket launch windows.
SaxaVord Spaceport informed residents in a letter last month about temporary traffic regulation orders (TTROs) that will be in place for several hours at a time surrounding the Lamba Ness site.
“Managed control points” will operate during launch windows, with the first potentially taking place as soon as next month.
An engine test at SaxaVord in August 2024 resulted in the first stage of its rocket exploding, which was described as a “big and wonderful image” which had resulted in “a lot of learning”.
External affairs manager Elizabeth Johnson said the restrictions are essential to ensure public safety and the secure operation of launches.
The spaceport has permission for up to 30 launches a year. It is expected to take several years to reach that level.
Rocket Factory Augsburg is to carry out the first launch from the site after July 1, though the company has stressed that this is a launch window rather than a confirmed date.
According to the letter to residents, the TTROs may temporarily restrict access to certain roads around Haroldswick and Norwick.
“To ensure that you are still able to access your home or property during these times we are introducing a local resident pass,” the letter states.
“This pass will identify you to traffic management personnel, allowing you continued unrestricted access through managed control points.”
Residents can also apply for extra passes if they have guests visiting for a special occasion.
The letter also highlighted plans for a designated public viewing area in Norwick, to be accessed via park-and-ride arrangements, and said the spaceport was keen to keep the local community informed and minimise disruption wherever possible.
