There are a number of challenges that need to be addressed before drone delivery and operations can become a mainstream reality.

Mercury Drone Ports is a project that aims to address these challenges by creating a first-of-its-kind drone port in Montrose, Scotland.

The drone port will create a safe and secure airspace for drone operations, allowing for “beyond visual line of sight” (BVLOS) flights. This will enable drone delivery companies to operate more efficiently and will help to develop new drone-based services.

Urban Foresight was commissioned to develop the business justification case for Mercury Drone Ports.

The business case found that the project has the potential to generate significant economic benefits for the region, including the creation of new jobs and the stimulation of innovation. It also found that the project is technically feasible and that there are a number of potential partners who could be involved in the development and operation of the drone port.

The business justification case was presented to the Tay Cities Region Deal Joint Committee and was granted an investment of £1 million of capital funding. This funding will be used to develop the drone port and to support the early commercial operations.

Mercury Drone Ports has the potential to play a significant role in shaping a new industry in the region, creating new jobs, stimulating innovation, and making Scotland a leader in the development of drone-based technologies.

Image credit: Jared Brashier