East Ayrshire councillors have approved a funding request for a feasibility study to explore options to replace the Scottish Dark Sky Observatory.

The popular venue was ravaged by fire in June, 2021.

When the Scottish Dark Sky Observatory first opened in October 2012, it was the world’s first large public use observatory within an International Dark-Sky Association designated gold tier Dark Sky Park.

The five-metre dome was a spectacular feature; with its rotating and retractable roof, it enabled night-time viewing through state-of-the art telescopes and imaging equipment.

In almost ten years of its existence, the Observatory had become a popular destination for enthusiasts, tourists and locals alike and its loss to the community has been devastating.

Since the fire in 2021, the Board of Trustees of the Scottish Dark Sky Observatory have been working with their insurer to secure a settlement sum for the building reinstatement costs.

In Pictures: Devastating moment fire rips through Dark Sky Observatory

However, prior to committing to any new development works, the Trustees are commissioning a feasibility study on the planned facility and site to ensure that any new venture is financially and environmentally sustainable, using the experience gained from almost ten years of activity, and incorporating improved vehicle access and ambitions around net zero.

Cabinet has agreed to fund the feasibility study to the tune of £10,000 in recognition of the role the Observatory has previously played in science education and its relevance to the Council's tourism strategy.

Councillor Douglas Reid, Chair of Cabinet and with responsibility for Community Wealth Building and Regeneration, welcomed this step.

He said: “I’m delighted to learn of plans to reinstate this unique dark sky facility in Dalmellington. In a short space of time it very quickly became a popular destination for visitors to the area, helping to put the Galloway Forest Dark Sky Park and East Ayrshire firmly on the map.

"I welcome the feasibility study as this will ensure that a new facility reflects local and national priorities in terms of climate change.

"A new facility would also have a key role to play in forthcoming Ayrshire Economic and Tourism Strategies and I look forward to hearing the outcomes of this exercise.”

Marc Charron, Chair of the Board of Trustees of the Scottish Dark Sky Observatory, added: “We are extremely grateful for the support of East Ayrshire Council in agreeing to fund the feasibility study, which is the next important step in reinstating the Observatory.”