Planning permission sought for revived Star of Caledonia proposal
The giant sculpture on the border, near Gretna Green, would be taller than the Angel of the North, and could help boost tourism in the region
Last updated 18th Mar 2024
The group behind an ambitious plan to create a landmark sculpture on the border between Scotland and England, near Gretna Green, is seeking planning permission for the project.
The Star of Caledonia would be taller than the Angel of the North, and the team claims it would provide a huge economic boost to the South of Scotland, attracting around half a million tourists every year, creating jobs and driving more than £50m of additional tourism revenue.
The Star of Caledonia Trust is now reapplying to Dumfries and Galloway Council for planning permission on a new site beside the M74, around a mile away from the original proposed site.
"A stunning welcome and farewell to Scotland"
The £11 million illuminated sculpture would reach a height of 35 metres, and the Trust says it would form “a stunning welcome and farewell to Scotland for travellers.”
The project has secured funding pledges from Community Windpower, one of Scotland’s largest green energy operators, as well as from Scottish Government agency South of Scotland Enterprise and the Borderlands Inclusive Growth Deal.
The new plans include visitor centre that will aim to showcase the Star and act as a gateway to promote tourist trails across Dumfries & Galloway and the Borders.
The centre will highlight local attractions such as the Robert Burns House in Dumfries, The Devil’s Porridge Museum in Eastriggs and Kirkcudbright Dark Space Planetarium, as well as others further along the border including Hadrian's Wall.
The sculpture was designed by Cecil Balmond, who worked with Anish Kapoor on the helix-
It is also hoped that the Star will put the south of Scotland on the map as a leader in the transition to renewables, as the illumination could be powered by renewable energy.
Revival of project could be "transformational"
Susan Houston, chair of the Star of Caledonia Trust, the team behind the project, said:
“We have always believed this project would happen. And with a new site and new plans, we have a new start.
“This revival is transformational and marks a pivotal moment for Gretna Green and the surrounding area, symbolising resilience, and adaptability in the face of challenges.
“As the Star of Caledonia gets a new home, the project is not just about a landmark sculpture but a catalyst for tourism, local economies, and community pride.”
Rod Wood, managing director at Community Windpower, said:
“We believe the Star of Caledonia to be a special project and we are doing all we can to see it built. We are heavily invested in Dumfries & Galloway already through our operational wind farms, but we have significant plans for future developments in the region and look forward to working with relevant stakeholders to see them delivered.
“The Star of Caledonia should be seen not only as a symbol of culture and growth, but also how wind turbines can bring environmental, economic, and social benefits as well as community benefits for a huge range of organisations. We must continue to capitalise on these exciting opportunities.”