SSEN Transmission has confirmed that early-stage preparatory works for the Lewis Hub project are commencing this week.

These initial activities are designed to facilitate the safe progression of the development while ensuring environmental protections are established before full-scale construction begins.

The scope of the current work focuses heavily on environmental safeguarding, starting with ecological surveys to monitor protected species and nesting birds. These assessments will remain a priority throughout the project's duration. Additional activities scheduled for the coming weeks include the installation of deer fencing to secure the AC substation and converter station sites, the removal of invasive plant species, and the delivery of temporary storage cabins.

Reflecting a commitment to the regional economy, many of these preliminary tasks are being carried out by local contractors from across the Western Isles.

In tandem with site preparations, principal contractor Balfour Beatty has submitted a planning application for a temporary workforce accommodation village in Stornoway. Located at the former Dormitory Site off Willowglen Road, the facility would provide en-suite modular units, catering, and leisure amenities for up to 200 workers. If approved, construction of the village would start in autumn 2026, with the site operational from mid-2027 until 2030.

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Callum Wardrop, SSEN Transmission's Project Director for the Lewis Hub, said: "As part of our preparations for the development of the Lewis Hub site, we will be undertaking some essential activity in readiness for enabling works, which we hope to begin in spring.

"While we do not expect the public to experience significant disruption as a result of this activity, we remain focused on minimising any impacts wherever possible.

"We continue to make good progress in preparing further submissions to Comhairle nan Eilean Siar with a view to commencing development at the site, and enabling works and main construction activity will only proceed once the relevant planning conditions have been satisfied.

"Meanwhile, we are working with our principal contractors to proactively plan accommodation for the Lewis Hub workforce. Balfour Beatty's proposed temporary accommodation village is one part of this, alongside support for nearly 100 new homes near Stornoway Airport and investment to refurbish the Caledonian Hotel – measures that ease pressure on local housing while creating a positive legacy."

George Young, Director of Operations at Balfour Beatty, added:

"Throughout the development of our proposals for the temporary accommodation village, we have worked closely with the local community to ensure all views are fully understood and reflected in our plans.

"As we begin early preparatory works on the Lewis Hub we remain committed to contributing positively to the community and local businesses, leaving a lasting and positive legacy for the local area."

Colin Maclean, Construction Director of principal contractor RJ McLeod, stated: "We welcome the opportunity of being involved in the HVDC Connection works on Lewis and to continue working jointly with SSEN Transmission and their partners, local suppliers and the local community."

The data gathered during these early works will inform the next stage of the consenting process with Comhairle nan Eilean Siar, ensuring all planning conditions are met before main construction begins.