SSEN Transmission will commence early works on Monday 8 June to support the installation of the mainland underground cable section of the Western Isles HVDC Link in the Highlands.

The initial phase will focus on preparing the route between Dundonnell and Beauly before main construction gets underway later this year. Conducted under permitted development activity, the upcoming works over the next few weeks will include establishing access provision, upgrading local tracks to facilitate cable installation, setting up temporary working compounds, and carrying out targeted tree felling.

This milestone is a significant step forward for the project, which is set to support regional employment and investment. The scheme forms part of SSEN Transmission's broader strategy to upgrade the electricity grid to accommodate new renewable energy generation, contributing to Scotland and the UK's clean power and energy security goals.

Minimising Disruption and Keeping Communities Informed

Initial works will be confined to smaller, unclassified roads and existing access routes, though activity will become more prominent as the development advances. SSEN Transmission intends to minimise impacts and provide advance notice whenever temporary traffic management or localised activities are required.

-- Advertisement --

The utility provider plans to keep residents, elected representatives, and stakeholders informed throughout the project with regular updates regarding scheduling and locations. To facilitate this, community liaison groups will be created for both the eastern and western sections of the cable route, serving as dedicated forums for direct communication with the project team.

SSEN Transmission aims to generate maximum economic benefit for local businesses and communities, targeting the delivery of £1.8 billion in contracts for regional firms through the Highland Social Value Charter. The early works phase will be executed by Highlands-based contractor RJ McLeod, who have expanded their regional operations to deliver the project, utilising the local supply chain and creating new employment opportunities, including apprenticeships.

Furthermore, the company is looking into options to support community initiatives and establish long-term travel and transport benefits, which include upgrading access routes and constructing new cycle paths along sections of the cable corridor.

Niall Macleod, Project Director for SSEN Transmission, said: "These early works, taking place under permitted development, are an important early step in delivering the mainland underground cable section of the Western Isles HVDC Link.

"As we progress this work, we know how important it is to keep those who live and work along the route informed, while keeping disruption to a minimum. With this in mind, we will establish dedicated community liaison groups to provide a forum for meaningful engagement with the project team, helping people stay informed, ask questions, and share feedback.

"We are also pleased that this phase of the project will be delivered by local contractors, supporting jobs and economic activity in line with our commitment as the first organisation to sign the Highland Social Value Charter.

"We will continue to work closely with communities, The Highland Council and other stakeholders, providing regular updates as the programme develops."