SSEN Transmission is proposing a temporary closure of a 4.7-mile stretch of the A832 near Dundonnell to install the underground cable section of the Western Isles HVDC Link.

The closure would be delivered in two phases over the winter season. The first phase would run from Monday, 27 October, to Friday, 19 December, with work resuming on Monday, 5 January, and concluding in Spring 2026. A diversion will be in place via Gairloch and Kinlochewe.

The planned closure follows a detailed project development process that has reduced the length of the road affected by around 50km from the original plan. To help alleviate disruption, the road will have periods of access throughout the day during working periods, reopen overnight, and remain open with traffic lights during contractors’ rest periods. Emergency access, including for school transport, will be maintained at all times.

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Highland-based contractor RJ McLeod will lead the work, which will involve upgrading or replacing 37 culverts. After the cable is installed, SSEN Transmission will resurface the majority of the affected area and install new barriers, resulting in a "significant long-term improvement" to the local road infrastructure.

Chris Sugars, Lead Project Manager for SSEN Transmission, said the closure is "unavoidable" but that the company is seeking feedback to "strike a balance" between the need for safety and the needs of local road users. He encouraged anyone who uses the route to provide their views.