Forres space rocket manufacturers to create hundreds of jobs
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FORRES space rocket manufacturers Orbex could create 310 jobs over the next five years.
That's according to a new report commissioned by the Caithness Chamber of Commerce which aims to attract a space business cluster to Moray and the Highlands and Islands.
Orbex currently employs 90 people but could see that figure sky rocket this decade once Space Hub Sutherland begins launching satellites next year.
Chris Larmour, Chief Executive Officer at Orbex, said: "Space Hub Sutherland is already a catalyst for new jobs and commercial opportunities in the North Highlands and Moray – and this will only intensify over the coming years. We are happy to play our part in this economic growth and to create new prospects for young people in the area."
Orbex will manufacture the rockets needed for Space Hub Sutherland to launch small satellites into space. They have developed one of the most advanced, low carbon, high performance micro launch vehicles in the world from their headquarters in Forres.
The UK economy would gain an additional £99 million through the North Highland and Moray Space Cluster. Over £90 million of that will be generated in Scotland.
The spaceport itself will support more than 40 full-time jobs when fully operational with 12 launches per year planned initially. However, more jobs will be created in construction and tourism, with the launches expected to attract an annual total of more than 4,400 visitors.
