About us

The North Uist Conservation Group was formed in response to the most recent proposal by the local Council (Comhairle nan Eilean Siar) to allow a commercial space rocket development in an area of pristine coastal wilderness at Scolpaig, on the Scottish Outer Hebridean Island of North Uist. We are committed to saving the spectacular and irreplaceable wild areas of North Uist.

The Isle of North Uist is a very special place and lies a few miles south west of the better known islands of Harris and Lewis. North Uist is home to world class beaches (many argue better than the best Harris beaches , if you know where to look), unrivalled walking country including the wild Atlantic coastline, outstanding surfing and other outdoor pursuits. There is superb fishing to be had in the numerous Lochs and the clear clean sea. Following recent media publicity, increasing numbers of nature lovers are visiting to enjoy the the sheer wild beauty and abundance of wildlife including Otters, Golden and White-tailed Eagles, wading birds and the extremely rare Corncrake. The Great Yellow Bumblebee which is on the verge of extinction also have a last stronghold here.

There are vast skyscapes, astonishing sunsets and frequent displays of the Northern Lights ( Aurora Borealis) throughout the darker months.

Hillwalkers appreciate the genuine remoteness and magnificent far reaching views to the Hills of Harris and Skye and beyond.

The scenery, vivid colours and special quality of light all year round is a magnet for artists and many have made their home on North Uist and contribute to the local economy.

Scolpaig

This stunning coastline would be changed forever.

Great Yellow Bumblebee

These bees are almost extinct, but can still be found in the unique Machair of North Uist. Image courtesy of Claire Piper.

Loch Scolpaig Tower

This scheduled ancient monument is part of the site to be commercially developed.

Buzzard

Golden Eagles, Buzzards and Hen Harriers are amongst the birds of prey in the Scolpaig area.

The Machair at Scolpaig

The rare, unspoilt Machair at Scolpaig supports many species including rarities.

Lapwing

Lapwings are one of the waders that feed and nest along this coast.

Otter cubs

Otters live on the Scolpaig shoreline. What effect will space rocket launches have on them?

Corncrake

These birds have been declining for years and continue to decline in other parts of Scotland. The distinctive call of the Corncrake has been heard in the Scolpaig area this year.

Flowers in the Machair at Scolpaig

This precious North Uist Machair is a rare and rich habitat.

Snow Buntings

These beautiful birds are winter migrants for which North Uist is an important migratory refuge.

Hen Harrier

Hen Harriers are declining dramatically in th UK. The proposed site for the rocket launching facility at Scolpaig is a mix of machair and peatland which is ideal for them. Hen Harriers have been reliably seen here.

Stacks of St Kilda

The Islands and sea stacks of St Kilda and the Monach Isles can be seen from Scolpaig. Their important colonies of Seals and Gannets feed along the coast at Scolpaig. What effect will the rockets have on them?

Scolpaig

The beautiful coast at Scolpaig. Not for much longer?

Otter (Lutra Lutra)

Otters are one of the reasons why lovers of wildlife come to North Uist.

We believe that all Council Planning Departments have a responsibility and a duty of care to protect our precious wild places for future generations.

Our Mission

To persuade the Council to withdraw their own Planning Application for the development of a commercial space rocket launch facility and associated infrastructure at Scolpaig on the Scottish Outer Hebridean Island of North Uist.

We demand that any future Planning Applications to develop wild and unspoilt areas of North Uist (or any other part of Scotland) are published conjointly with the results of independent high quality research into all the possible adverse effects on the natural environment and the public fully consulted to ensure that an informed decision is made.

Our Vision

To promote guardianship of the earth's unique, rare, wild and unspoilt places. To help protect our planet from the ravages of poorly regulated development.

Keep Scotland's Outer Hebridean paradise for everyone to enjoy, now and always.

We Need Your Support Today!

How to help