SP Energy Networks has submitted a Section 37 consent application to the Scottish Government's Energy Consents Unit (ECU) for major upgrades to the electricity transmission network between Denny in Stirlingshire and Wishaw in Lanarkshire.

Known as the Denny to Wishaw Network Upgrade (DWNO), the scheme forms part of a wider UK programme to reinforce the grid so renewable electricity can be transported from where it is generated to where it is needed.

If approved, the project could support hundreds of jobs and create significant opportunities for Scottish and UK suppliers, including in steel fabrication, civil engineering, specialist contracting and local services.

The proposals aim to increase network capacity, reduce constraints and ensure the system can reliably support new homes and businesses, the electrification of transport, and the growth of low-carbon industries across central Scotland.

The ECU submission follows a detailed development process, including environmental assessment and two rounds of public consultation involving community drop-ins, meetings and stakeholder briefings.

Plans include upgrading substations to accommodate approximately 35 km of 400kV overhead lines, and building a new 19 km overhead line between Bonnybridge and Glenmavis to bolster the local network.

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The upgrades would connect to the existing transmission network and enable an additional 1,000MW of clean electricity to flow from generation to demand centres.

The full Section 37 application can be viewed on the ECU website at www.energyconsents.scot.

Hard copies of the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) and supporting documents are available during normal opening hours at:

- Bonnybridge Library – Bridge St, Bonnybridge, FK4 1AD

- Cumbernauld Library – 8 Allander Walk, Cumbernauld, Glasgow, G67 1EE

- Coatbridge Library – Buchanan Centre, 126 Main St, Coatbridge, ML5 3BJ

- Wishaw Library – Kenilworth Ave, Wishaw, ML2 7LP

- Denny Library – Davies Row, Denny, FK6 6FA

Guy Jefferson, Managing Director of SP Energy Network's Transmission, said: "Submitting the first consenting application for our RIIO-T3 strategic investment programme is a massive step forward for our 'clean-power 2030 portfolio' but also in delivering the modern, resilient electricity network Scotland needs for the decades ahead.

"Throughout the development of this project we carried out extensive public consultation and have been delighted with the level of engagement and constructive feedback which has helped inform and shape our plans.

"Investing to upgrade our electricity transmission network helps us drive jobs and support wider development and economic activity both locally and nationally; giving steel, electrical engineering and specialist contractors the confidence to invest in their own businesses – creating jobs and economic benefit for the whole of the UK.

"At a local level it unlocks funding for local groups, supports job creation plans and help deliver a legacy for communities which host our infrastructure.

"We now look forward to the Scottish Government's determination of this critical national infrastructure development and stand ready to deliver this investment in the electricity transmission infrastructure upgrade as quickly as possible."

Alongside the Section 37 submission, a planning application has been lodged with North Lanarkshire Council for an extension to the existing Cumbernauld substation.

A single Environmental Impact Assessment covering all elements of the project can be viewed under reference ECU00006380.

Further information about the Denny to Wishaw (DWNO) project, including a short video, is available on SP Energy Networks' website.