Planning for the initial phase of Mercury Drone Ports, which will place Angus at the centre of the drone industry, has started with a consultation to get residents’ views on what could potentially see drones in the air offshore this year.
With the global drone industry set to expand over the next five years, the 6-month temporary airspace project aims to establish an area of offshore trial airspace and give local businesses the chance to get involved by providing viable cases to use drones while developing a track record of safe operations.
Economic Development Spokesperson, Cllr Braden Davy said: “Establishing a world class drone industry could potentially attract business visitors and spend to Angus. Delivery drones are a fast and reliable solution for many supplies and this trial in Montrose lays foundations from which to potentially grow a permanent drone operation across Angus – one of the future growth industries.
“People often only hear of the negative experiences of drones but like any other device, they need to be used responsibly and are subject to specific safety rules relating to the way they are operated, underpinned by UK law.
“This is why Angus council and Drone Technologies Ltd are keen to reassure local residents of the safety record and give them the opportunity to raise any concerns and have them answered through a series of online presentations to be held.”
The online presentations are being held on Wednesday 19 August at 10am and 7pm and people can book their place by emailing tcd@angus.gov.uk
The project is one of Angus Council’s Mercury Programme investments to increase productivity through clean growth, protecting places for future generations to live, work and visit.
Find out more about the Mercury Programme and Drone Port project.