New observatory written in the stars

A NEW £1.5 million Scottish Dark Sky Observatory (SDSO) is set be built near New Galloway after plans were approved by officials.

It will be based at the former Forestry and Land Scotland (FLS) visitor centre at Clatteringshaws, which will be converted and extended.

There will be 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’s designation as a Dark Sky Park.

Commenting on reaching this milestone, a spokesperson for the SDSO said: “The Trustees of the Scottish Dark Sky Observatory are delighted to announce that their application to Dumfries and Galloway Council for planning permission to redevelop and extend the former Clatteringshaws Visitor Centre complex has been granted.

“This planning permission will allow the trustees to press ahead with their plans to redevelop and extend the former FLS Clatteringshaws Visitor Centre, near New Galloway, to create a publicly accessible astronomical observatory, planetarium and visitor centre in the very heart of the internationally recognised Galloway Forest Dark Sky Park.”

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.

Construction will soon begin at the new site with the aim of having it ready for early 2027.