New dark sky observatory plans

PLANS for a new £1.5 million Scottish Dark Sky Observatory (SDSO) near New Galloway have been submitted to officials.

If approved the plans would see the conversion and extension of the former Forestry and Land Scotland (FLS) visitor centre at Clatteringshaws.

It will include a 360 degree planetarium as well as a gift shop and small cafe.

The aim is to create a ‘unique educational asset’ and visitor attraction which capitalises on the area designation as a Dark Sky Park.

That, in turn, should provide economic benefits for the community in the area.

The old observatory, near Dalmellington, was destroyed in a devastating fire in June 2021. But a return to this location was ruled out due to poor accessibility, lack of utilities and security concerns.

A design statement submitted with the application to Dumfries and Galloway Council states: “The entire UK astronomy community was shaken by the loss of an outstanding educational and tourism facility.

“After entering discussions to renegotiate the lease of the original parcel of land, serious concerns were raised in relation to the very poor access road and the absence of mains electricity, both of which were regarded as major negatives.”

After exploring a variety of options, the SDSO completed the purchase of the visitor centre backed by funding from South of Scotland Enterprise (SOSE) in November 2024.

The statement continued: “The existing building will be upgraded to provide a new education facility, an upgraded cafe and kitchen and refurbished toilets. Two new inserts are proposed into the existing U shaped building providing additional exhibition space and supplementary toilet facilities.

“Overall the new approach creates a carefully considered arrangement of observation facilities with the support of visitor and education spaces- a new exciting Dark Sky Observatory.

“The core aim of the design is to offer an opportunity for anyone to enjoy the dark sky to the maximum.”