SSEN Transmission has formally submitted a planning application to Perth and Kinross Council for a new underground electricity transmission cable project in Perthshire. The proposed development, situated near Tummel Bridge, involves the installation of two 132kV underground cable circuits spanning approximately 4km between the existing Kinardochy and Errochty substations.

The initiative is a component of a wider upgrade to the Beauly to Denny overhead line, which is being transitioned from 275kV to 400kV operation to assist in meeting national energy security and clean power targets.

The application details the necessity for both permanent and temporary access tracks, as well as temporary construction compounds required for the installation process. Additionally, the plans include the creation of two temporary bellmouth junctions situated off the B846 public road. To manage local road network impact, a construction traffic management plan will be active throughout the duration of the project.

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While the application features an outline development boundary, this represents the general working area rather than the final site footprint. All temporary access tracks and construction areas are scheduled for reinstatement once the project has been commissioned.

This formal submission follows a series of three pre-application consultation events conducted last year, providing the public with the opportunity to review the designs and engage with the project team.

Kevin Rooney, Project Manager from SSEN Transmission, said: "The proposed underground cable project is a key part of our plans to upgrade the Beauly to Denny overhead line to 400kV operation, helping to connect new renewable energy and support national clean power and energy security ambitions.

"To support the cable installation, we need to put in place access tracks and construction compounds for the duration of the works. Most of this infrastructure will be temporary and reinstated once construction is complete.

"This application follows a detailed development process, balancing technical and environmental requirements alongside local feedback. We would like to thank everyone who took part in our consultation events, whose views have helped shape our proposals."