SSEN Transmission's programme to strengthen the high-voltage network around Dunoon is moving into its principal build phase later this month, marking a major step in efforts to improve resilience and replace ageing assets.

The Dunoon Overhead Line Rebuild Project will replace the existing double-circuit 132kV overhead line that connects Dunoon to the national grid. The upgrade will modernise infrastructure dating back to the 1970s and help future-proof the transmission network across Argyll and Bute, supporting long-term reliability and security of supply.

The project received its Section 37 consent from Scottish Ministers in October 2025, with teams now mobilising to commence main construction within weeks.

Ahead of this next phase, a package of local road upgrades has been completed, including road widening and new passing places—primarily in the Ardentinny area—to support the safe movement of construction traffic throughout the works.

In the coming weeks, contractors will begin building a network of access tracks to reach tower locations along the route. Forestry operations will also start shortly to clear land for the future access tracks and the overhead line corridor, with this activity expected to continue for around 18 months.

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Construction compounds will be established at both ends of the route, at Sandbank Industrial Estate and Gairletter, to serve as operational hubs for project teams and contractors during delivery.

Paul Ferguson, Project Manager for SSEN Transmission's Dunoon Overhead Line Rebuild Project, said: "This is an important milestone for the project as we move from the preparation phase into the start of main construction activities. Over recent months, we've worked closely with local stakeholders and communities as we completed the necessary road improvements ahead of construction. I'd like to thank residents and road users for their patience and understanding while this work has been carried out. As activity increases on site in the coming weeks, we remain committed to keeping local communities informed and minimising disruption wherever possible, while delivering the infrastructure needed to support a resilient electricity network for the future."

Approximately 18km of replacement double-circuit overhead line will be installed between Dunoon Substation and a point west of where the line crosses Loch Long. The scheme includes 77 new steel towers, ranging from 23m to 39m in height, with average spans of about 230m.

To the east of Loch Long, the network is operated by SP Energy Networks, where the rebuilt Dunoon line will connect. Once the new line is energised, the existing 132kV line will be dismantled and removed.

This project forms part of SSEN Transmission's wider investment across the north of Scotland to bolster network resilience and support the transition to a cleaner energy system. Further details are available at: www.ssen-transmission.co.uk/projects/project-map/dunoon-overhead-line-rebuild-project/