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SSEN Transmission has submitted a planning application to Perth and Kinross Council for a new haul track, crucial for facilitating construction traffic to the proposed Cambushinnie 400kV substation project.
The haul track, which will connect from the A822 and intersect the B8033, is designed to enable the delivery of two large 400kV transformers for the substation. While its construction will temporarily impact traffic through Braco for an estimated 24 weeks, once completed, it will be used by all substation-related traffic, thereby bypassing the village and significantly reducing long-term disruption to the local road network. The route has also been designed to minimise potential impact on mature trees, hedgerows, and local habitats.
This planning application follows an earlier submission for the Cambushinnie substation itself, which is a key component of SSEN Transmission's wider Beauly to Denny overhead line (OHL) upgrade from 275kV to 400kV operation. This upgrade is vital for connecting high-voltage, clean renewable power to homes and businesses across the UK, supporting both Scotland and the UK's clean energy and energy security ambitions.
Subject to planning approval, construction of the haul track is anticipated to commence in April 2026 and last for 11 months. No work on the substation will begin until the haul track is completed.
Kevin Rooney, SSEN Transmission Development Project Manager, stated: "The proposed haul track is primarily required for the delivery of two transformers for the substation site, however it will eventually provide access to all construction traffic for the duration of the substation project thereby minimising disruption to the local road network in Braco." He also noted the inclusion of a temporary bridge over the Keir burn and a compound with screening and noise barriers to limit construction impact.
The planning application for the haul track can be viewed on Perth and Kinross Council's online planning system using reference 25/00984/FLM. The application for the Cambushinnie substation can be found under reference 25/00490/FLN.
