SSEN Transmission is set to begin a short-term programme of ground investigation near the River Beauly as permitted development to support plans for a potential replacement of the Black Bridge.

Starting on Monday 13 April, the phased works are expected to run for roughly six to eight weeks. A small specialist team will carry out surveys and borehole drilling to assess local ground conditions.

Residents and community councils have been notified in advance about the timing and nature of the activity.

Data gathered will feed into the ongoing design of possible future works at the Black Bridge. Subject to planning consent, the bridge would act as a route for construction traffic linked to the proposed Fanellan substation, which is currently the subject of an appeal to the Scottish Government. Accurate ground information will help ensure any future designs are safe and suited to the location.

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These survey works are being advanced separately from the Fanellan application under permitted development rights, and The Highland Council has been informed.

During the investigations, people may see small teams on site, specialist machinery and some vehicle movements. Short single-lane closures will be required at specific spots to safely load and unload equipment; these are expected to last around 40 minutes each time, with stop/go signage in operation.

A longer single-lane closure managed by temporary traffic lights is also anticipated from 27 April for up to ten days. Vehicle movements will be limited and carefully managed, with access to the south side of the Black Bridge via Kiltarlity to reduce disruption.

The car park on the south side of the Black Bridge will be closed for the duration of the works with the landowner's agreement. Access to the nearby cemetery and local fisheries will be maintained.

Laurie Kibblewhite, SSEN Transmission Project Director, commented: "Ground investigations like these are an important step in understanding local ground conditions, and these works taking place will help ensure any future designs are safe and appropriate.

"We recognise that activity around the Black Bridge is of interest to the local community, and we are committed to keeping people informed as these works progress, while minimising disruption as far as possible."