Forres MSP Ariane Burgess calls on rocket builder Orbex to invest £20 million UK Government funding locally
A politician based in Forres has called for a company with government backing to confirm how it plans to invest in the local workforce.
Scottish Green MSP for the Highlands and Islands, Ariane Burgess, welcomed the announcement of a £20m UK Government investment in space rocket manufacturer Orbex, which should secure jobs at the company’s headquarters at Forres Enterprise Park.
However, she also expressed disappointment that the funding has not prompted a reconsideration of the future of Orbex’s spaceport site in Sutherland.
She said: “It is crucial that we understand how this investment will benefit the Highlands and Islands.
“I urge Orbex to clarify whether these funds will support the growth of their manufacturing operations in Forres, which could provide much-needed jobs and economic stability to the area."
Orbex currently employs more than 140 people in highly skilled roles in Forres - spanning the design, manufacturing and testing of its micro launcher, Orbex Prime.
An Orbex spokesperson confirmed the firm plans to build a 10,000 sqm factory to ramp up production and potentially support the manufacture of its new medium sized launcher, Proxima.
A pre-launch testing programme of individual components, as well as integrated testing, continues at Kinloss.
The spokesman added: “We estimate that the factory has the potential to create several hundred new jobs once operational.”
The company’s team of aerospace engineers and business support specialists span avionics, software, structures, testing, manufacturing, engineering systems, IT, finance, HR, quality, health and safety, legal and marketing.
“We are looking for experienced, forward-thinking professionals to join our team in Forres,” said the spokesman, “as we develop one of Europe’s most advanced orbital launch vehicles.
“For technical roles, we seek candidates with expertise in aerospace, mechanical or systems engineering who thrive in a fast-paced environment. Strong problem-solving skills, teamwork and a hands-on approach are also essential.
“We welcome applications from those who want to help shape the future of European space launch.”
Orbex’s ditched Sutherland spaceport project included plans to build 14 homes. Following the move in December, focus has since moved to SaxaVord, a site in which the main objector to the original plan - Anders Hoch Povlson - has invested.
Ms Burgess believes it is “disheartening” that the recent funding has not led to a rethink.
She said: “The Sutherland spaceport project was not just about launching rockets; it was about creating sustainable economic opportunities and combating depopulation.
“The abrupt decision to halt the plans has had a severe impact on the local community, with workers learning about their job losses through the media. The decision also undermines the efforts of the Northwest 2045 collective to revitalise the region and build a sustainable future."
Orbex confirmed enabling works and a floating road have been completed at Sutherland spaceport. Construction has paused but the company will “will continuously review the position”.
As required by Highland Council, Orbex will continue to maintain the site and deliver planning obligations including surveys and monitoring work.
“Our priority is first and foremost to deliver reliable and sustainable launch services to the European space industry,” said the spokesperson. “By launching from SaxaVord Spaceport in Shetland, which is already licensed, we can accelerate our path to first launch this year while focusing our resources on developing Proxima. This strategic shift enables us to meet growing market demand and strengthen our position in the European launch sector.”
He finished: “We remain committed to the North of Scotland. We look forward to working closely with SaxaVord to deliver our initial launches. We will continuously review the position with Sutherland Spaceport.
