SSEN Transmission is preparing to begin a temporary programme of controlled trial blasting as part of ongoing ground investigation activities for the Lewis Hub project.

The works, planned between 16 September and 9 October at the Arnish Moor site, will help the project team understand ground conditions and gather data to support future planning and design, as well as the safe and responsible delivery of the scheme.

Specialist contractors will undertake the blasts under strict controls, with temporary exclusion zones, signage, fencing and traffic management in place. Where required, the Arnish Road will be closed for short periods of no more than 20 minutes.

Any disruption is expected to be limited and short term. While there is no fixed timetable for individual blasts, activity is anticipated between 10am and 12 noon, and between 2pm and 4pm, with no blasting on Sundays.

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Local residents, businesses and other stakeholders have been notified. Advance notice of blasting and any temporary road closures will be provided through signage and direct engagement to ensure communities know what to expect and when.

Callum Wardrop, Project Director for the Lewis Hub, said: "We recognise that trial blasting activity may be a concern for those living and travelling near the area, and want to reassure the community that these temporary works will be carefully managed and carried out under strict safety procedures.

"The trial blasting will help us better understand local ground conditions and gather important information to support future planning and design of the Lewis Hub project. Similar activities are already taking place as part of the Arnish Road upgrade, although the Lewis Hub trial blasts will be smaller in scale.

"We are committed to keeping residents, businesses and road users informed throughout the programme, including providing advance notice of blasting activity and any temporary traffic management arrangements.

"We would like to thank the local community in advance for their patience and understanding while these short-term works are carried out."