IRVINE’S MP has welcomed plans for a new licensing system for potential spaceports.

The UK Government decision effectively gives Prestwick the green light to forge ahead with ambitious plans for a spaceport in Ayrshire, news that has “utterly delighted” Dr Philippa Whitford MP.

Last year, Newquay in England was voted the number one site for a potential spaceport which the Central Ayrshire politician says was for political rather than commercial reasons.

Dr Whitford hit the headlines in January when she made a Star Trek Vulcan salute in the House of Commons while talking up Prestwick’s Spaceport bid.

And the SNP MP believes the licensing announcement in the Queen’s Speech debate on transport gives new hope for Prestwick.

She said: “This is fantastic news for Prestwick.

“While I have been working hard to promote Prestwick as the ideal site for the UK’s first Spaceport, I have also been calling for a licensing system to enable more than one site to develop in what is a fast growing industry rather than have them all compete for one prize.

“This was the main thrust of the motion I put before the House when I secured a debate on the UK Space industry in January. 

“More recently I highlighted that, following the US model, a license will be required for each individual vehicle and, as such, a licensing system will be inevitable.

“I am, therefore, utterly delighted to hear that the Government has abandoned their long held plan of a competition and is instead planning to establish Space Launch licenses.”

Dr Whitford added: “Prestwick Airport is ideally suited to housing a Spaceport with its long runway, clear weather, good transport links and Air Traffic Control on site.

“The surrounding Aerospace Cluster would contribute to the development of the launch vehicles and just up the road we have Clyde Space, the world leader in the production of ultra small Cube satellites. 

“Prestwick is probably the closest shortlisted site to achieving launch capability and our chances of developing that role commercially have now vastly increased.

“The Spaceport team, led originally by Stuart McIntyre and now by Mike Stewart of Prestwick Airport, have been working tirelessly to showcase Prestwick’s advantages to the industry.”

The MP continued: “Given their proactive approach, I feel we have a real advantage over other sites and could well be ready to welcome space industries to Prestwick in the next year or so.

“I will, of course, continue to work with them and support them in their endeavours in the coming months.”