The community consultation process on the proposed new Spittal – Loch Buidhe – Beauly 400kV overhead line project continued last week at a well-attended public meeting in Strathpeffer.

As the Transmission Network Owner in the North of Scotland, SSEN Transmission are responsible for connecting new electricity generation to the GB grid and transporting it to where it is needed. Home to some of the UK's greatest renewable energy resources, the north of Scotland electricity transmission network has a strategic role to play in supporting delivery of the UK and Scotland's net zero and energy security targets.

As part of their 'Pathway to 2030' plan, the company is proposing to reinforce the onshore electricity network between Spittal and Beauly, providing a new 400kV connection to increase network capacity and enable the connection and transportation of new renewable electricity generation. That will mean installing new overhead power lines, and constructing three new 400kV substations at Spittal, Loch Buidhe and Beauly.

-- Advertisement --

Consultation with the communities that could be impacted by the project started in February this year and we recognise the strength of feeling amongst some individuals and groups, with concerns expressed over the visual impact of new overhead power lines in particular – and we're listening.

We're a stakeholder led business and the views of communities matter to us – that's why we are committed to working closely with them to develop critical national infrastructure projects like this one, and events like last night's public meeting are important for doing just that.

Speaking after the event, Community Liaison Manager for the project, Martin Godwin, said: "It was great to see so many people from Strathpeffer and Contin engaging with us on our proposals last night.

"This project will be crucial in delivering the Scottish and UK Government's climate change targets, as well as providing a significant boost to the Highland economy, but we recognise we need to deliver it in a way that aims to keep environmental and community impacts to a minimum.

"That's why events like this public meeting are so important for us, to get a real steer on what matters to the community. Thanks to everyone who came along and took part.

"We're looking forward to further engagement with local communities and stakeholders as we continue our detailed analysis on the feedback received, including the active consideration of an alternative route the community has proposed."

The Spittal – Loch Buidhe – Beauly 400kV connection project is in the early stages of development. You can find out more and share your views to help shape the development of the project here.